Our friends and community become life-shapers to us. So, who, in your life are helping to shape you and push you to be the best that you can be?

Not everyone in your life will be your coach, advocate or cheerleader!

In the Bible, Amos 3:3 asks the question, “Can two walk together, unless they agree?”

Many times, it’s healthy to respectfully disagree with a friend. But this is never acceptable if this person is hindering your growth in Christ.

If you’re in a negative relationship that is holding you back or pulling you down, you may need to cut ties.

Seek positive relationships with people who support, grow and challenge you to be the best version of who God created you to be.

Think about the last time you went shopping for clothes. What would you do if the sweater you were trying on didn’t fit? Would you force it on or look for one in the correct size?

Sometimes we do this with scripture. We may pluck out a verse here or there to suit our needs or fit our opinions. But, out of context, we can do some serious damage by reading the word of God in this way. We may end up attempting to force a verse into a situation that was never intended to fit our expectations.

When we’re studying the Bible, it’s important to know the circumstances, timeline and the audience. We should allow the Bible to teach us about who Jesus is and who we are in Him.

In the Bible, when the woman with the issue of blood touched the hem of the Savior’s garment, Jesus already knew that she was going to touch Him. He already knew she was in the crowd. After all, He is God in the flesh. Now, while He could have pointed her out, Jesus asked, “Who touched Me?”

God wants us to ignore the crowd around us, look past the chaos, and approach His throne boldly. It could have been an unmentioned miracle, but Jesus would have this unnamed woman speak up publicly, for what she sought after and received from Him. Jesus said to her, “Your faith has made you whole,”. She wasn’t just made well, but WHOLE- completely restored.

So, what are you desperately believing God for? And what are you willing to risk? Whatever you do, be bold in your pursuit of God