WHO DO YOU HANG OUT WITH?

By Jade Washington

This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, the only blameless person living on earth at the time, and he walked in close fellowship with God. Genesis 6:9 (NLT)

Ever heard the phrase, “You are who you hang out with”? It’s often used as a forewarning when good teens fall in with the wrong crowd, but if you think about it, the essence of that advice has a biblical basis.

The first mention of the word “blameless” in the Bible was used to describe a man who walked in close fellowship with God. Noah’s time spent walking and talking with the Lord led him to be morally right and virtuous (some translations say “perfect”), even in the midst of a corrupt generation. This fellowship established a deep trust in the Lord that produced a secure faith. So when God called Noah to build something strange and brand new, he didn’t falter. We all know the story. Yet what’s interesting is that the Bible refers to Noah as blameless prior to building the ark, not after. Noah’s fellowship with God credited him as being the only blameless and righteous person alive on earth. Although it’s often the most talked-about aspect of his story, building the ark didn’t establish his character, his devotion to God did.

The time Noah spent with God literally defined him. He became more like who he hung out with. Noah still had his shortcomings but continually spending time with God led him to being blameless in God’s sight.

What does this tell us? We already have right-standing with God because of the sacrifice and blood of Jesus! We have the opportunity every day to enjoy full access to fellowship with our heavenly Father and to live in this identity. God is inviting you into an intimate relationship with Him that is righteousness-producing and ever-maturing in intimacy, trust, and a confident faith for what’s to come. Will you fellowship with Him today?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for reminding me of the sacrifice Jesus made that allows me to walk in fellowship with You. Your gracious love established my identity and secured my rightful standing with You. Today, help me to receive and better comprehend the gift of spending time walking and talking with You. I love You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Memory Verse

The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. Psalm 119:130 (ESV)