We are continually shaping who we are. We are either using the habits and values of the world to shape ourselves, or we are using godly principles to make choices that shape us into the likeness of Christ.
Our choices drive us toward truth or away from it. if we choose the world's standards at any level, we cannot help but distort truth. We will give what we think is sound advice, but it will always be influenced by our hidden sin and therefore is tainted.
Peter put it this way, "Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance (1 Peter 1:13-14).
We never just hurt ourselves.
