SCRIPTURE: Jude 1:11-16

11: Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.
12: These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;
13: Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever…
16: These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men’s persons in admiration because of advantage.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: UNGODLY INFLUENCE SHAPES OUR FUTURE NEGATIVELY

In Jude 11–16, Jude warns believers about the danger posed by ungodly people within the Christian community. He describes their destructive character and influence, reminding believers that not everyone who associates with the people of God is necessarily walking according to God’s will. Ungodly influence can be dangerous because it may not always appear openly. Jude describes such people as selfish, deceptive, fruitless, and driven by their sinful desires. They participated in the fellowship of believers but did not produce the character expected of God’s people. This teaches us to be careful about who influences our faith, values, decisions, and lifestyle. Not every voice deserves our attention, and not every relationship should have equal influence over our lives.

We must also examine ourselves. It is not enough to identify ungodliness in others; our own lives must continually produce the fruit of righteousness. Our words, attitudes, relationships, and choices should point people toward Christ rather than away from Him.

Jude’s warning reminds us that ungodly influence can quietly damage our faith and character. Therefore, we must guard our hearts, choose our influences wisely, remain grounded in God’s Word, and live as faithful representatives of Christ.
May our lives influence others toward Jesus rather than away from Him.

ASSIGNMENT
Examine the people, content, and voices that influence you regularly.

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, protect me from people and influences that can weaken my faith.