Author Darlene J. Conard

Throughout my life, I have encountered a myriad of experiences, each imparting valuable lessons that have shaped who I am today. Every challenging moment has etched its mark, leaving behind scars that serve as reminders of my growth. As I started my day, my mind was consumed by the profound impact of influence and how it can sway thoughts, actions, and even the course of our lives. It’s remarkable to consider the ripple effects that a single word or gesture can have on those around us. This led me to a Biblical account, King Solomon.

How can an individual transition from a deep knowledge of God to the worship of idols? God bestowed extraordinary wisdom upon Solomon, a gift granted because he prioritized understanding over material riches. Yet, despite this divine blessing, Solomon ultimately found himself ensnared in the intricate web of temptation and deceit, a fate precipitated by the vulnerabilities of his own heart. 1 Kings 3-4

Emotions possess great strength, and the impact of our surroundings can be significant. Through my experiences, I’ve learned the importance of exercising caution in our interactions. Our mission should be to guide others toward God, allowing His presence to shine brightly in the lives of those who are lost in darkness, illuminating their paths and drawing them closer to divine truth. If we are not vigilant and discerning in our choices, we may find ourselves influenced by negative forces that can lead us to adopt behaviors contrary to God’s Word. Such influences can come from various sources—be it social media, peer pressure, or even certain cultural norms—that subtly encourage us to compromise our beliefs and engage in actions that are misaligned with what we know to be right. It is essential to remain aware of these potential pitfalls and to actively cultivate positive influences in our lives, ensuring that we uphold our commitment to integrity and righteousness.

As a vigilant watchman, I am raising the alarm to emphasize the importance of remaining steadfast in our ability to discern the truth from deception. We must stay alert and unwavering in our judgments, ensuring that we carefully evaluate what lies before us.

It’s a well-known fact that when a single rotten apple is tossed among its fresh, vibrant companions, it doesn’t take long for the effects to spread. The decay from the spoiled fruit seeps into the surrounding apples, causing them to develop unsightly blemishes and begin to rot, tarnishing their once-healthy appearance and vitality. Don’t be the one who gets affected by bad fruit.

 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. I Corinthians 15:33 KJV

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

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