What statements are written inside you? Levi’s has a statement printed on the inside of the pants on the pocket. The person who owns the jeans is the only one that can see. Once you read it, every time you put them on, you remember what it says. This decree shares a little about their history, their style, and their future.

God desires for us to have a statement of faith about ourselves, hidden within our heart. This personal statement of faith will guide and direct us through every life situations. Within my statement, I have my core value like honor and integrity as well as the values stated in Colossians 3

…compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense…And regardless of what else you put on, wear love.

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:12-14 MSG‬‬

These core values guide and direct me throughout my life. I will not make a discussion that on contrary to my value. We all do this so the big question is “What is your value?”

We will acquire and simulate value throughout our lives, from family, friends, churches and even employers. We may ever adopt their values without knowing. This is why we need to be cautious who we have a relationship with.

“Don’t be deceived, bad company corrupts good character.”

‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15:33‬ ‭CEB‬‬

So when you find those with same values it is not hard to partner with or and spend time with that person. In contrast, if someone has a value opposite from yours you will either compromise your or slowly adapt their or they will forsake theirs and adopt yours. This is why you hear people complaining about their job, friends, and other believers, because of a value clash.

Not all value clashed are the same. It could be that both values are a positive value, one person lives out of one value, while another lives out of a different value. I have “Integrity” as one of my values but I value “Unconditional Love” higher. So if I am working with a person that their main focus is integrity over love this could cause a value clash. Make sure you are not attacking someone because they have a different or higher positive value.

Application

• Take a survey of your personal values
• Are you living out of them
• Who around you is add positively and who is adding negatively to your values