And if anyone does not obey our word in this epistle, note that person and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet, do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15

 

There will be people in your life who you’ve known either for a short time or a lifetime. People change over time, some for the better and some worse. Today’s scripture encouraged fellow Christians to separate themselves from those who chose a path opposite of God’s standards of living. By doing so it kept them from poisoning the fruit of fellow believers.

 

This is true for believers today. Your relationship with Jesus Christ is the most important one you can have. Protecting that from the distorted beliefs of others and careless lifestyle by backsliders is key to maintaining your faith and view of God. There is nothing wrong with putting distance between you and these misguided brothers and sisters in Christ. It doesn’t make you any better than them, it simply is an act to protect the precious and pure relationship you have with your Savior.

 

Prayer for that person is the one thing you can do to draw God’s attention to them to restore them back in good standing. We need to watch out for one another, but do so from a distance. God will bless you for your faithfulness! God bless!