Leviticus 15:1-16:28 / Mark 7:1-23 / Psalm 40:11-17 / Proverbs 10:13-14
The Pharisees were always washing everything with water – their hands, their dishes. Why? They thought this made them clean, pure, and right before God. I’ll admit that I like things to be clean. I may or may not be a little bit of a germaphobe… But if I had to choose between clean hands and a clean heart, I’d choose a clean heart.
Jesus said, “It’s not what goes into your body that defiles you, you are defiled by what comes from your heart.”
How do we know what is in someone’s heart? It comes right out their mouth! Or it’s shown in their actions, which I think speak even louder than what is said. Some people show their true character right away, and with some it takes a little longer. But no one can pretend to be who they are not for long.
Are you truly kind? Are you truthful? Do you live a double life? Do you cut and run the minute things get tough? I could ask a million more questions that would help determine who a person is at her core. Don’t get me wrong; we’re all imperfect. We just must decide if those we’ve chosen to walk with are the ones we’re willing to embrace the good, the bad and the ugly with!
And if you’ve found a group of people who want to do the same with you – embrace your good, bad, and ugly – you’re rich indeed! Everyone relationship goes through highs and lows, good times and bad. There are “safe” and “unsafe” people. And there is nothing wrong with discerning between the two and choosing to set your boundaries, spending the bulk of your time with “safe” people.
Some have been taught that we must accept all people, and to some degree I agree with that. I will give anyone a chance. But I will not allow everyone into my intimate inner circle space. That space is reserved for those who have proven to have the highest of character; those who have proven they have my back no matter what. And I have an amazing group of family and friends who fit these criteria. As a matter of fact, I believe I’m richer in that area than many!
You’ve also heard it said that to have a friend, you must be a friend. A friend is one attached to another by affection or esteem. One that is not hostile. One that is of the same nation, party, or group. A favored companion.
I invite you today to look around you and evaluate the ones who are close. Are they safe? Are they truly friends? Do you need to make any changes? Or do you simply need to thank God for the blessings He’s given?
