by Ed Hanchett

How often do we as Christians want to withdraw from interacting with those whose beliefs or values may differ from our own? Certainly, our personal comfort may be sustained, but is this really what God wants of us?

Granted, God does not desire for us to succumb to false doctrines, nor does He intend for us to participate in destructive, harmful, or even sinful activities. However, God does command us to live in the world while being separate from the world. Living in a peaceful state with our neighbors not only allows us to demonstrate God’s love, but also provides opportunities to share the Gospel. Jehoshaphat demonstrated the ability to interact and live side-by-side, in a peaceful manner, with those whose beliefs were in direct conflict with God – all the while maintaining effective boundaries that protected both he and his people from the influence of ungodly men.

Your fellow traveler,
Ed