For the believer, the biblical standard for choosing FRIENDS has always been not yoking ourselves to UNBELIEVERS. That's easy enough to comprehend. The other facet of FRIENDSHIP/FELLOWSHIP to consider then involves FLESHLY brothers and sisters. This is a more challenging aspect of the matter being discussed.
As a mother, I don't really have issues with my kids WANTING to befriend unbelievers. They do not have a desire to do so, UNLESS it is to bring testimony of Jesus' love. They are not rude to those who've not accepted Christ as Savior, but they don't seek a closeness as do they with true believers. Albeit, the world and all it's 'pleasures' calls out to them and to me from every corner! Even from within the realm of Christendom.
I can say that the trend in our experience that we've come across believers who are WANTING to be part of the world. I realize the naivety of youth and it's desire to want to feel accepted and loved among peers. That desire extends even into adulthood. It's a NATURAL desire.
However, it's difficult to explain to my own kids that friendship with the world, that some misguided friends actually desire, makes us/them enemies of God (James 4:4). So the challenge to teach the truth of God's word and to continue to be an example to these He's placed in my world is...HUGE. My children desire fellowship too. Indeed, the Bible encourages us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together (Hebrews 10:25). But by endeavoring to obey this imperative will their God-given gifts, talents, and abilities be used for HIS glory? Or because of association, will mine fall prey to the same hedonistic world view that the church appears to be embracing, also take hold of my children's hearts as well? They were meant for so much more!
PRAYER: Lord, help ME to accept who You made ME to be so that I can be a confident example of one who calls herself Yours. I acknowledge You as my Maker and trust that Your hand is ever present in my life, leading me through each challenge that parenting children brings. Grant wisdom in those areas I lack insight from Your Word and help me to teach/train these children that Your principles are always right and good. When the temptations arise, and they will, grant the strength and courage to choose Your ways. Amen.
