Protecting Purity - Bonus Post

Mark Beeson is the lead pastor at Granger Community Church in Granger, Indiana. He's recently started blogging, and generally has solid, thought-through insights. Today's blog entry parallels what has been on my heart this week so well I couldn't wait until tomorrow to post it. Here's his advice to young people:

"Luke 8:17 says: "For nothing is hidden that will not become evident, nor anything secret that will not be known and come to light."

Don't think you'll have no reactions to your actions.

Don't think others will miss that you are missing.

Don't believe your secrets are a secret.

What you do will be known. Where you go will be reported. What you say will be recorded.

Your choice of friends will serve as the measure of your ability to choose wisely.

So I'll offer the following for my young friends. These thoughts may help you make good choices today so you are positioned for success tomorrow.

1. Don't take your clothes off and take your picture. If your clothes are off take a shower.

2. Don't write an email to your friends with the subject line, "For your eyes only." If you write an email assume it will be seen by everyone everywhere forever.

3. Someone is taking your picture with their cell phone right now. Sit pretty. Stand up straight. Don't slouch. Head up. Chin down. Smile, you're on candid camera.

4. If you want to win American Idol don't think flaunting your past as a male stripper will win you points with Simon. In fact, I suggest you avoid stripping altogether.

5. Someone will surprise you in the future with these words, "Hi. I've heard all about you." Do what's right and you won't have to break into a free sweat while looking around for a quick exit. Your reputation always precedes you. You're under observation.

6. If you plan to be a state governor avoid affairs, cheating, lying and betrayal. Sexual infidelity doesn't instill confidence.

7. People are watching you and your friends. Those on surveillance assume you make decisions based on your values. You'll be associated with your associates. Maxwell was correct. "The people around you determine your level of success." They also effect your electability.

8. It's a small planet. We're not trying to get away from "bad" people. We're trying to bring "up there down here" for all people.

People are watching to see if that is what you are doing. Their trust and confidence will be established by what they observe. Live today so you'll have no regrets tomorrow."