If you don’t know when to seclude, separate, excuse, and exclude yourself, you will soon be seduced.
I once stumbled upon a verse that radically changed how I approach relationships: “Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord…” — 2 Corinthians 6:17. As I matured in faith, I understood this as God’s wisdom, urging me to be discerning about the influences in my life.
Community is important, as my grandmother always reminded me: “You’ll never have to stand alone.” Having people to support us matters because we aren’t meant to walk this journey solo. But there’s another side to this wisdom: knowing when to step back and separate from unhealthy associations and influences—something I quickly realised is essential in life and leadership.
In business, for instance, you must recognise when an employee’s negative attitude could affect the entire organisation. Sometimes, that requires a difficult but necessary separation. Similarly, in personal relationships, I see many young people who need to remain close to friends or partners who may not share their values or ambitions.
This kind of separation doesn’t mean isolating yourself from everyone; rather, it’s about stepping back to ask whether certain connections are uplifting or holding you back. Sometimes, saying “no” is an act of courage, aligning us with our purpose and helping us focus on what truly matters.
Isaiah 52:11 encourages us to “Depart, depart, go out from there!” Hosea 7:8 warns of the dangers of mixing with the wrong crowd. These verses remind us that the company we keep can profoundly impact the direction of our lives. Spending time around people who lack focus can weaken our resolve, but surrounding ourselves with purposeful, kingdom-minded people strengthens our path toward a meaningful destiny.
God has set each of us apart with a unique calling. In the right environment, that calling will flourish. Be intentional with your time and energy, trusting that you make space for purpose and growth when you separate yourself from negative influences.
I pray you find the strength to seclude, excuse, and exclude yourself when needed so that you may thrive in the path God has laid before you.