Every decision we make—or avoid—has the power to pull us closer to our destiny or push us further away. The same is true of the people we allow into our lives. Some people build us up and help us fulfill God’s purpose; others tear us down and distract us from His plan. Here’s the challenge: can you tell the difference?
After college, I fell in with a group of tough, street-smart guys who I thought cared about me. We were thick as thieves, and I felt like I finally belonged. But deep down, I knew their choices didn’t align with what I believed. Still, I stayed—because they were like family, and loyalty ran deep.
Over time, though, I realized the truth: we weren’t walking the same path. Their values didn’t line up with mine, and their influence could lead me to a place I never wanted to be. It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, but I severed ties with them. That moment changed everything. It was painful, but it also opened the door to something greater. It was through that decision that I found Christ—and the peace I had been searching for my whole life.
The Bible offers countless examples of people whose wrong connections led to their downfall. Take Samson and Delilah: Samson was one of the strongest men to ever live, but he lost his strength—and ultimately his life—because of someone who betrayed him. Not everyone who smiles at you is happy to see you. And sometimes, the relationships we’re holding onto are the very ones God has been telling us to release.
Think about something in your life that you know shouldn’t be there. Maybe it’s a habit, a mindset, or even a relationship. You know it doesn’t bring you peace. You know it pulls you further from God. Yet you keep holding onto it, hoping it will somehow work out. But here’s the truth: you cannot pour new wine into old wineskins. If you want to step into the next chapter of your life, you have to let go of what’s holding you back.
Walking the narrow path is about choosing God’s way over the world’s. It’s about standing firm in your values, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular. It means letting go of toxic connections and habits that don’t align with God’s plan for your life. It means silencing the opinions of others when they conflict with God’s voice.
Jesus Himself reminds us of the narrow path in Matthew 7:13-14: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."
It’s not easy. Fear often holds us back—fear of being alone, fear of the unknown, or fear of what others might think. But Joshua 1:9 reminds us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” God’s plans for you are good, and He promises never to leave you. Trust Him enough to take that first step onto the narrow path. He will guide you toward the abundant life He’s prepared for you.
Take this moment to reflect on your life. Are the people, habits, and mindsets shaping your journey pushing you closer to God—or pulling you away?
Living with purpose as a leader of your own choices requires courage. It means letting go of what’s easy for what truly matters. God doesn’t want perfection—He wants you to be intentional. When you trust Him, even in the hardest moments, you can step boldly into the amazing life He has for you.
Let go of what’s holding you back. Trust God to replace it with something greater. God’s light is already within you—it’s time to let it shine.
Say this prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for calling me to live with purpose. Help me discern the relationships, habits, and mindsets that no longer serve Your plan for my life. Give me the courage to walk the narrow path, even when it’s difficult, and the faith to trust Your guidance above all else. Lord, fill me with Your Spirit, strengthen me, and lead me as I step boldly into the purpose You’ve prepared for me. Thank You for always being with me and for never leaving my side.
