BE SURE NOT TO CO-SIGN

Jonelle Maxwell

Co-signing can be very dangerous for a person especially when it comes to one’s character. We have been hearing the term co-sign for years in regard to purchasing a vehicle, house, or some kind of property. This is usually asked from some that does not possess a good standing in their character as far as credit. When it comes to receiving a loan, the creditor want to know will the one asking for the loan will be able to pay the desired amount back. If not, then having a co-signer will, at times, guaranteed payment if not received by the original person requesting.

I use this scenario because how many times have we been asked to co-sign for a person because of their lack of character in the things of God.

Why is this?

Because somewhere there have been a breach of character in the life of many believer’s. We must be willing to obtain good character report with those we come into contact with. Having to always ask for a resume’ from a believer due to lack of trust should not be mentioned among those that are professing the name of Jesus Christ. Also, when finding out that one do not possess honest quality character traits, we must not be so quick to come into an agreement with them. The scripture remind us that we should know them by their fruit, not by the gifts.

*Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? [Matthew 7:16]

Also, we must be careful to not agree with people’s poor behavior. We must hold one another accountable in how we treat one another as well. Another scenerio is setting up traps for others due to jealousy and envy.

*“Wrath is fierce and anger is a flood, But who can stand before jealousy?” [Proverbs 27:4]

*“But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t brag and deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where envy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every kind of evil.“ [James 3:14-16]

Over the years, I have experience many times traps being set for my demise. Oftentimes, it was either in minstry, on the job, in so-called friendships, and relationships. It is very wise for one to take a step back to see who are truly there for you when tough times come. This will reveal their true character. Some are not happy for your sucess and would rather see you down and out for the count.

I believe God want us to have good friends we can trust and colleagues without any underhanded funny business. We must also understand, real friends are hard to come by.

So, the next time someone ask for a handshake be sure you know what you are getting yourself into. Be sure you are not setting yourself up to fail due to co-signing with the wrong people.

THINK BEFORE ACTING!

*A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold. [Proverbs 22:1]

*In all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing to say of you. [Titus 2:7;8]