Separation

We should take heed with whom we join in league and amity.  Before we plant our affections, consider the persons what they are; if we see any signs of grace, then it is good; but if not there will be a rent.  Throughout our whole life this ought to be our rule; we should labour in all company either to do good or receive good; and where we can neither do nor receive good we should avoid such acquaintance.  Let men therefore consider and take heed how they stand in combination with any wicked persons. —Richard Sibbes If any occupation or association is found to hinder our communion with God or our enjoyment of spiritual things, then it must be abandoned.  Beware of 'leprosy' in the garment. (Lev. 13:47)  Anything in my habits or ways which mars happy fellowshp with the brethren or robs me of power in service, is to be unsparingly judged and made an end of— 'burned.'  (Lev.13:52)  Whatever I cannot do for God's glory must be avoided. —Arthur W. Pink Guilt or grief is all that gracious souls get by communion with vain souls (Ps. 119:136, 158). —Thomas Brooks It is our wisest and our safest course to stand at the farthest distance from sin; not to go near the house of the harlot, but to fly from all appearance of evil (Prov. 5:8, I Thess. 5:22).  The best course to prevent falling into the pit is to keep at the greatest distance; he that will be so bold as to attempt to dance upon the brink of the pit, may find by woeful experience that it is a righteous thing with God that he should fall into the pit. —Thomas Brooks Sin is a plague, yea, the greatest and most infectious plague in the world; and yet, ah! how few are there that tremble at it, that keep at a distance from it! —Thomas Brooks