Who Do You Associate With? - Quick Observations - Proverbs 1:10-19
Quick links to the passage: KJV NKJV NASB NIV
Before we get started again, do not forget to get involved in our online bible study in June. It will be a blessing far greater than can be measured and it will continue to pay spiritual dividends on going in your life. Spots are filling up, just enter your name and email address to the right. Now to today’s quick observation.
Most of us, if not all of us, have heard the warning that you should be careful with who you hang out with. The one reason given to me was that I will become like those I associate with. It is true that certain habits, how we say things, and our interests merge in like with those who we are in contact with the most.
Though that is an important concern for all of us, but that is not the exact warning given here when we associate with the sinful crowd…
It is the final conclusion that is in focus of King Solomon here. Yes, be careful of who you are around because your living habits will change but also and more importantly how you will end up will be shaped. It is the principle that you will reap what you sow. Look at verse 10 to see how it is our decision. Solomon says that when sinners are trying to get you to go with them, do not consent. You have a choice, even if they are trying to deceive you. You choose who you are associated with. Who you spend time around just does not happen by accident. It may be a passive choice on your part, but it is still a choice made not to avoid someone.
Notice the sinners point of view. They have all these plans to gain for themselves as they destroy others in verses 11 to 14. They think they have it all together. They may think it is fool-proof, but they will not be prepared for what is ahead for them.
The warning of not to go with them starts in verse 15 and their demise is spelled out in verses 16-19. The sinners’ short-sightedness and failure to see their impending destruction in evident is clearly spelled out to those who would hear and take heed of the warning.
So do you notice who you hang out with? Are they leading you to their and your own destruction? It works both ways. You can have people around you that can influence you to holiness and righteousness. Notice this also. Are you one of those who are leading others to your own and their destruction? Then stop it! It is not too late to repent and get right with God. Then get others around you who can encourage you toward holiness and righteousness.
