When I became a born-again Christian, I remember I use to question everything, like, “Why can’t I still hang out with my friends who drink and party,” or “What’s wrong with still being around those who pass judgment and gossip?” I could go on and on, but truthfully, the more I tried to stay around these groups of friends, the more uncomfortable I started to feel. See, my walk and my growth in Christ Jesus wouldn’t allow me to be comfortable any longer. Why? Because God told me, “Separate yourself from wicked folk; you are a new creature in Christ.” It made total and complete sense especially since I was trying to overcome my own drinking habit, listening to worldly music, stopping cursing, passing judgment, and gossiping, to separate myself and not be around those who didn’t have my best interests at heart or were going to steer me down the right path. How could they? They weren’t on the right path themselves. I was the only one walking solo on this Christian journey.
Separating from wicked folk when God has made you a new creature in Christ means to guard and protect your spirit, your spiritual growth, your new character from corruption, and maintain a pure testimony. When you choose to surround yourself with ungodly influences this can subtly compromise your values and distract you from living a life devoted only to Christ Jesus. You may risk allowing yourself to become in that moment who you “were” again, forgetting that you’re no longer that person but have instead, been made anew, washed, cleansed, and forgiven your sins. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) tells us, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This verse refers to having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and being spiritually united with Him. “New Creation” emphasizes an inward transformation. It means your old spiritual life is entirely replaced by a fresh, God-given identity. Your “old” life was wrapped up in sin, worldly perspectives, and natural pride.
Now, understand, becoming a new creature in Christ doesn’t mean that you will never face temptation, trials, or tribulations, or even sin again, but instead, the lifelong process of sanctification where you, as a believer, will grow in holiness, increase your hate of sin, and become more empowered to choose righteousness. Your heart’s desires, purposes, and moral direction are all also made new. Be the person who is seeking to be obedient to Christ every day so that you can help model obedience for others. James 5:15-16 (NIV) states, “And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Do not let what is on or within other’s (sin) become attached to or within you. Remember, separate yourselves from those wicked folks because God made you a new creature in Christ. Amen. Until next time folks, stay blessed and stay safe!