Friday, May 22, 2026
“Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word” (Psalm 119:9 KJV).
If our physical posterity could augment its spiritual dexterity, exactly what would that entail?
Dear young person, not only should you be vigilant as to what you are taught (and, by extension, what you believe), you ought to take heed regarding with whom you associate. For example, observe this timeless advice: “Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul” (Proverbs 22:24,25). Emotionally-unstable people are poor role models for anyone and everyone who happens to become acquainted with them. They will negatively influence you, so avoid them. When in doubt, try it out!
Reflect again on the sad state of affairs at Corinth. These Christians had befriended those who lacked doctrinal integrity, religious leaders (false apostles, heathen philosophers, et cetera) who did not teach them “wholesome” (healthy, clean, nourishing) information. Hence, the Corinthians were living in the very depths of sin and ignorant (unknowing) of God’s words and will: “Be not deceived [led astray, fooled, tricked]: evil communications [relationships, companionships] corrupt good manners [conduct, living, habits, customs]. Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame” (1 Corinthians 15:33,34). Nearly 2,000 years later, the Corinthians’ shameful errors are still weakening and devastating the professing church because it has habitually engaged in “evil communications” (sinful alliances).
Indeed, we are living in a dangerous time socially. Your friends will either take you up with them, or bring you down with them. People are not necessarily what they appear to be. Not everyone has your best interests in mind. Be careful as to whom you let live with you and allow to ride in your vehicle, and always be aware if they are leaving something behind that might get you in trouble. Above all, be quite wary of whom you date, and be extremely cautious as to whom you marry and have children with. These (!) decisions (!) will (!) truly (!) have (!) lifelong (!) consequences (!).
We can further “cleanse [our] way….”
333 Words of Grace 