Devotions with Pastor Bill Ritchey

When the Israelites left Egypt following the plagues and the first Passover, we are told that a mixed multitude went with them (Exodus 12:38). That multitude no doubt influenced the Israelites in spiritual, cultural, and social manners, as did the Egyptians as well.

I’m pretty sure this “mixed multitude” would have been a factor in the idolatry Israel participated in while Moses was on Mt. Sinai getting the Commandments from GOD. Those we come into close relationships with, family, friends, co-workers and others, can and do have a strong influence regarding what we believe and how we behave. This happens whether we want it to or not. Family ties are among the toughest to break, for a good reason.

Those we associate with the most are those who influence us the most. We tend to think, speak, and act like them, especially if we seek their approval. If they are of a different faith system, there is a natural tendency to be drawn into that faith as were the Israelites at Mt. Sinai. 1 Corinthians 15:33 gives an important warning, “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’” Proverbs 22:24-25 speaks to us today also, “Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man, 25 lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.”

Three things you can count on from healthy Christian relationships:

1. They will help you through hard times, according to Galatians 6:2.
2. James 5:16 tells us they will pray for us when we are honest and open.
3. They will help keep us pointed toward Christ, not away from Him (see Hebrews 3:13)

We all need friends who will help us up when we are down. We also need to be the type of friend who will lend a helping hand to others, especially those of the family of GOD. What type of friend are you?

Pastor Bill
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PS: If you want to soar with the eagles, don’t flock with the turkeys.