Proverbs 4: 14-27
14 Don’t do as the wicked do, and don’t follow the path of evildoers. 15 Don’t even think about it; don’t go that way. Turn away and keep moving. 16 For evil people can’t sleep until they’ve done their evil deed for the day. They can’t rest until they’ve caused someone to stumble. 17 They eat the food of wickedness and drink the wine of violence!
At first glance, these few verses seem harsh or blunt. It is almost as if the author of this passage knew that if he did not just come out and say what needed to be heard, it would probably just be skimmed over and not taken very seriously. Essentially, these verses are saying that as Christ followers, it is our responsibility to be accountable for who we decide to befriend in this world. It is very easy to fall into the wrong group of friends and not even realize it. He is saying this as a warning to us. Don’t be distracted or enticed by the things of this world that are not meant for us. As Christ followers, we have an important responsibility to be an example to those who are not believers. How foolish would we look if we were easily swayed by worldly evils?
18 The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, which shines ever brighter until the full light of day. 19 But the way of the wicked is like total darkness. They have no idea what they are stumbling over. 20 My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. 21 Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, 22 for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body.
I think it is important to note the urgency in the author’s writing. It amplifies the importance of this idea. He is reminding us that even though it will be challenging and we will most definitely be tempted by the world, it is imperative that we hold strong to the Lord and his guidance. What I think I love the most about these verses is that the author is so persistent. He knows what it would mean if we stumbled into darkness with those evildoers and he does not want it to happen to us. I love that. I think as Christians we should do the exact same for our friends that are also Christians. We should stop at nothing to make sure that they know the importance of following the ways of the righteous and the consequences of following the wicked.
23 Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. 24 Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech. 25 Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. 26 Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. 27 Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.
In all we do, we must keep our eyes locked on the Lord. It is going to be difficult and we are guaranteed to slip away a time or two, but God will be on our side the entire time.
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