Mirror

When you hear someone else's story it sounds so familiar you think it was yourself all over again.
It's amazing how life will mirror your situation through someone. I guess circumstances remain the same, it just afflicts different people at different times.

I do find it easier to give advice on situations that I have experienced. The passion of identifying the problem is so real. Once you can identify the source of a situation, God will give you the words to say for a good sound spiritual solution. We have to consult with God on these types of things. Going on your own merit is risky.

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.~Proverbs 3:5

When we are witnessing, our thoughts should not be our own. Even with the empathy we feel and the proof of  that which we my see, it's vital that the Spirit of God's presence take over everything.

We are messengers of the gospel.
But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, who tests our hearts.~ 1 Thessalonians 2:4

I Will Always Be Me

Have you every changed your thoughts or behavior due to association with someone else?  When I did not have Christ in my life , I allowed people to influence my thoughts and even how I worshipped God. When you can not identify the intentions of others you may fall victim to what you are told and mistakenly led the wrong way. That is why you must know God for yourself and keep His commandments according to His Word. Man will manipulate you to fit their own selfish needs. God does not instruct another to led you astray.

The thief comes not, but to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.~John 10:10

It's important to have a uniqueness about your presence and walk with confidence in the Spirit.
This goes for  your association for ALL mankind. (Believers/Unbelievers)

You may have a desire to fit in with a certain group, but instead of  trying so hard to fit in ....pray to God and see what they have to offer that fits your lifestyle. Be led by the Spirit.

You may loose a few folks when your decision may not sit well with their plans for you, but that's okay.  Practicing what's right has a tendency to "SEPARATE" one from another.