“For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.” Galatians 2:12

Living up to our convictions is not an easy task. Our convictions show that we are thoroughly confidence in what we embrace to be true. Therefore, our character, conversations and conduct should be evidence of what we believe. However, we are subject to fall short at any time, and need the grace of Almighty God to keep us grounded and rooted in the Word.

The Apostle Peter in Galatians chapter two was rebuked by Paul for separating himself from the Gentile converts when in present of the Jewish brethren. Peter had recently received a vision from God when sent to Cornelius about not calling anything uncommon that God had cleansed. Therefore, he was preaching to the Gentile converts about justification by faith in Jesus Christ.

However, when he came back to Jerusalem in the presence of his Jewish brethren, he feared their reaction and refused to eat with the Gentiles. “For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.” Galatians 2:12.

This set a bad example and caused the other Jewish brethren to shun the Gentile converts as well. Paul simply called him out on the matter and pointed out that even as Jewish brethren they believed that they were not bound by the law but justified by faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The things that we say and do have either a positive or negative influence on others. Someone is always watching. Our witness for the amazing grace of God and His unconditional love for us should be on display for the world to see at all times. However, the fear of what others will think can cause us to denounce our own convictions. The bible tells us to “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28.

We have a choice to make, will we honor God or man? Peer pressure is real, that is why it is important that we surround ourselves with godly individuals who honor the truth. My mom would always say, association brings about assimilation; in other words, be careful of who you are hanging around.

Let us strive to run this race in faithful obedience to our Lord, walking according to His word and allowing the Holy Spirit to empower us be influences of the truth; We never know whose watching and as God beloved children we will all give an account for our actions… the familiar hymn state, may the life I live speak for me, what will our lives say before the throne of God?

Decide at this very moment what kind of influence you will make today, and may God give us the grace to proclaim the His truth before all men. Colossians 3:16 points us in the right direction  “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

God blessings of peace and mercy to all.