Bill Fitzhenry's Thoughts For Today…

Reading through the 31 chapters of Proverbs each month can give us an understanding of how to serve God.

Proverbs 4:14-15 ESV

¹⁴ Do not enter the path of the wicked,
and do not walk in the way of the evil.
¹⁵Avoid it; do not go on it;
turn away from it and pass on.

Some instructions - whether spiritual or moral – are very simple. Complexity is like change. It is never desirable merely for the sake of itself.

The instructions given in chapter 4:14-15 are very simple. Five times in the two verses the writer directs the reader away from any appearance of evil. This particular instruction begins in chapter one and is repeated throughout the Proverbs.

The surest way not to bog a vehicle down in sand, snow, or mud is not to go into it. Once in the mud bad things can happen. Once started on a path of sin bad things will happen.

The instruction in these verses is not only for the young. “The path of the wicked,” and “the way of evil” is always a danger for any Christian. Simple instructions such as this are replete in the Scriptures.

Paul warns “Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins good morals.” I Corinthians 15:33. This simple instruction is repeated often. Companions cannot be taken as neutral. A continual concern must be exercised toward the company a person keeps. The simplicity of the statement does not lessen its importance or the necessary attention that should be given to it.

The repetition of the negative in chapter 4:14-15 emphasizes the importance of the company kept and the beginning of activities that are chosen. This is a simple instruction, but it is of profound importance.