Walk not in the way of sinners

Proverbs  1:10 My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.

Temptation is a reality that we all face. It comes in many forms and often appears attractive, promising pleasure, success, or an easy way out of our difficulties. Sinners,  that is those who have chosen a path away from God's commandments will often seek to draw others into their wayward ways.

They may appeal to our desires, our fears, or even our need for acceptance. But Solomon, in his wisdom, alerts us to the true nature of these enticements: they are traps designed to lead us away from God and into sin.

The instruction given was never to consent with their persistent pressure to lure us into their sinful act. While we may not be able to avoid being tempted, we do have control over our response. The Bible is filled with examples of those who resisted temptation and those who fell into it. Joseph, when enticed by Potiphar's wife, chose to flee rather than sin against God (Genesis 39:12). On the other hand, David, in a moment of weakness, gave in to temptation and suffered greatly because of it (2 Samuel 11).

We are called to be like Joseph, to recognize the enticements of sin and to refuse them, no matter how appealing they may seem. This is not always easy, and it requires a deep commitment to God's ways, as well as the strength that comes from the Holy Spirit.

Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:13 that "God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."

Walking in the way of sinners in our society today can take many forms such as, keeping ungodly friends, joining ungodly trend on social media, following multitude to do evil, among others.

Why is it so crucial to heed this warning?

Walking in the way of sinners leads to destruction. The Bible repeatedly shows us that the path of sin is a downward pitfall, leading to death, both spiritual and, sometimes, physical. In Proverbs 1:15-16, Solomon continues to warn, "My son, do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths; for their feet rush into evil, they are swift to shed blood." The companionship of sinners can lead us to partake in actions that are against God's will, bringing ruin upon ourselves and those around us.

We must also consider the impact our choices have on others. As followers of Christ, we are called to be a light in the world, to lead others to the truth and to live in a way that reflects the holiness of our God. If we walk in the way of sinners, we not only harm ourselves but also dim the light that should shine brightly from us, leading others astray.

Nevertheless, there are blessings for staying true to righteousness. When we resist the enticements of sinners and choose the path of righteousness, we align ourselves with God's blessings. Psalm 1:1-3 beautifully captures this truth: "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law, he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers."

Walking in righteousness brings stability, peace, and fruitfulness to our lives. We become like that tree, firmly rooted and constantly nourished by the streams of God's grace and wisdom. In this way, we not only avoid the pitfalls of sin but also thrive in the purpose God has for our lives.

In conclusion, Let us be vigilant, recognizing the enticements of sin for what they are, and let us have the courage and strength to say, "No, I will not consent." Let us choose the path of righteousness, knowing that it leads to life, peace, and eternal joy in the presence of our Lord.

God bless you.

Prayer key:

1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word in Jesus Christ name.

2. Lord, grant me the grace to be steadfast in righteousness and holiness according to your will in Jesus Christ name.

3. Lord. Hell me to resist every temptations that can lure me to sin in Jesus Christ name.

4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.