I don't fit in with my friends anymore.

[wtfismymotto]

I am mid 30s and in all honesty I feel like I have grown as a person but my friends have stayed dormant or have regressed.
They act like teenagers in regards to bitching and moaning about others whilst I say I'm not interested in talking about others can we do something positive? But they'll do something for a bit then go back to being childish again.
They are very derogatory to their husband's too and I have never seen the need to do that when you're suppose to be out doing something nice together.
One friend split from her husband then just went on a spree, sleeping with multiple men close together and purposely ignoring her children. We always spoke about how we want to be positive role models for our kids but she was putting herself in really dangerous situations but didn't see the issue because she was "having fun". I need to start separating myself but I just don't know how.
I just want to find friends who prioritize the simple things in life, lift others up, have good morals and want to raise their family in a positive environment.

Is there a particular reason you've posted this on the Christian board?
Your aims for life sound great, but you've not mentioned belief in Christ as saviour, or faith at all? Are you currently a church goer, or is this something you're working towards?

I am currently a church goer yes. I have always been very vocal about this to my friends but they also dismiss my beliefs even when I have made space for theres. However I feel I am beyond this step of accepting being undervalued by them. I am just looking for advice on stepping away in the most gracious way I can.

@wtfismymotto You are a 'church-goer'. Before I consider your wider points, I would like to ask you, do you know Christ Jesus as your personal Lord and Saviour? Have you dedicated your life to Christ Jesus?

I think it's difficult to step away from friendships that are so long, especially as you still want friends. Have you got people in the church that you are close to, or could potentially become friends with?

It does seem like the Holy Spirit is gently calling you away from those friends who still embrace the things of this world. You are right to follow His lead. I doubt your friends would understand, but we have been warned of this by Jesus, that the world would not accept us. I think in this case 'less is more' in terms of explanations to your friends, perhaps say you are wanting to spend more time focusing on your family?

Agree totally with this, but first take steps to ensure that your church provides you with a family who you can focus on. If you attend a small church, or a quiet one, where folks smile and nod to each other but don't really connect, then have a look around at other local churches, so that you can find one that really welcomes and encourages you, and where you can find new friends too.

You don't have to abandon your old friends and your old church. You can still see them - and pray for them too. But you will be more you, if you have others around you who can encourage you and support you in your walk.