Sucked In

Today Jude talks about teh dangers of fellowship with non-Christians, even those who attend church events.  He is talking about those who claim to be believers but abuse God's grace to let themselves believe they can do whatever they want and they will be forgiven for it. 

These people would still attend large dinners held before communions and turn them into big parties rather than a time of healthy fellowship.  Jude warns of the dangers that could come from being with these people, basically saying they could take you down with their sinking ship; suck you in to their dangerous way of life.

It is easy for us to get trapped in the same type of relationships today as well.  Perhaps parents of children in your kids' classes, people from your children's activities or even people at church who might not be saved.  They might be people we want to get to know better.  They might be people we find very fun and interesting and really want to be friends with.

The hard part comes when you like the people and want to spend time with them, but have to be careful on not getting sucked into the habits they might have that would not be pleasing to God.  However,  you can't completely ignore and not spend time with non-Christian friends.  If we lived like that, how would we ever further the kingdom.  So there is a fine line.  You must be alert and guard your heart around people who might 'suck you in' to bad practices.  Ask God to give you the strength needed to stay strong and be the example these friends might need in their lives.  Let Him use you as a life-style witness to them by your actions and loving heart.

It is a hard calling.  One that can get you mocked and teased because you refrain from things they might not see as a problem, but let them notice the difference and wonder what it is.  Hopefully, they will see the light that difference brings to your life and will give you the opportunity to share just what it is.