Ephesians 5:7 

Therefore do not be partakers with them

Do not.

We are plainly told DO NOT hang with those who flatter us with empty words; for it will become harder and harder to sever ourselves from those who are stroking our egos.

So let’s look at these two words:

Do not.   Such few words.  Yet we want to add to them reasons why we do not need to obey,   

Do not.  Such clear instructions.  Yet we easily become confused as we veer away from obeying them 

Do not.  Seemingly confining words for we are duped to think accepting a NO is depriving us of something we are entitled to

Friend, while our loving Father warns us of the dangers we face in this life, He has in His love allowed us to decide if we want to abide by His counsel. 

Will you heed the warning of DO NOT PARTAKE or will you toss it aside?  While the decision in yours, you and I will both reap the consequences from that decision