FACING GIANTS EVIL COMPANIONS

“Do not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits’” (1 Corinthians 15:33). It is so easy for us to think that our associations with worldly people will have no effect on us. Perhaps that is why Paul begins the verse with the statement, “Do not be deceived.” If we make it our habit to associate with people with little or no spiritual direction in their lives, they will turn us to their ways of thinking and living. Their influence in our lives is usually gradual, but that makes it no less certain.

There are many admonitions and warnings in the book of Proverbs. “My son, if sinners entice you, Do not consent” (Proverbs 1:10). “He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed” (Proverbs 13:20). “Go from the presence of a foolish man,” (Proverbs 14:7). “Make no friendship with an angry man, And with a furious man do not go, Lest you learn his ways And set a snare for your soul” (Proverbs 22:24-25). “Do not be envious of evil men, Nor desire to be with them;” (Proverbs 24:1). What is so ironic and sad is that the man God used to pen these warnings allowed the women in his life to turn him from God (1 Kings 11:4).

Some may ask, “Did not Jesus associate with sinners?” Yes, He did. That habit of His life actually got Him in trouble with the self-righteous Pharisees (Luke 5:29-30; 15:1-2). However, His association with them was not for social benefit but for the well-being of their souls. He came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). If we are spending our time among evil companions and are not making every effort to convert them, we are asking for trouble. It is also important to notice that His closest companions were like-minded people.

I have heard people say, “I am too strong of a Christian. They are not going to have a negative influence on me.” Keep in mind another admonition of Proverbs: “Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18). Those with such an attitude also need to remember the words of Paul in 1 Corinthians 10:12, “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” It is a very dangerous game and the price (your soul) is of great value. Satan is wise in the ways of the world and he will use any and all of his tricks to pull us away from God, even if it turns out to be the person we thought was our best friend.

As a final word on this subject, I would like to especially warn our young people. This is not exclusively a problem of youth, older Christians must be aware of the dangers also. However, our young people need to be reminded of this danger when choosing friends and especially as they begin dating. The best friend, dating partner, or (eventually) spouse you can have is someone who will help you get to heaven.

Do you choose to associate with evil companions just for the fun of it? Beware of the giant!
--Lamar