A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray (Proverbs 12:26, NIV).
People will often wrap themselves in the identity of other groups or people. Some will choose to be identified as Republicans or Democrats, conservationists or environmentalists, or maybe just part of the elite. Many people, especially here in the South, will embrace the identity of the college they attended, be it UGA, Auburn, Tennessee, or for the wisest among us, the University of South Carolina. They will wrap themselves in the colors and excitement of that college, even to the point that their mood for the entire week depends on whether their football team won or lost the previous Saturday. (I wish I didn’t battle this disease.)
How about you? Is there someone with whom you have chosen to identify? Be careful with that decision, because the person you become will reflect whomever you choose to follow and befriend. And the image others have of you will reflect those with whom you identify. Knowing that, it only makes sense to choose to be identified with Jesus Christ. Even those who don’t follow Him never question His character.
Have you chosen to follow Christ? To let His Spirit give you the desire for Him to be your role model? Do your actions indicate that you identify with Him? Do others see Jesus in you? What’s your identity?
