How can we encourage others when "vileness is exalted among the sons of men"? Setting the Scene “ ‘The wicked wander freely, and vileness is exalted among men.’ ” (Psalm 12:8) David describes a culture where corruption is celebrated and the righteous feel sidelined. His cry mirrors what many believers sense today. Scripture shows how to stand firm and lift others when wickedness seems to win. Anchor Truths to Share First • God sees everything—nothing escapes His notice (Psalm 11:4; Hebrews 4:13). • His Word never shifts with cultural trends (Psalm 119:89). • Christ’s victory is settled; evil’s triumphs are temporary (John 16:33; Revelation 19:11-16). Practical Ways to Encourage Others 1. Listen to Their Burden • Give space for honest lament, just as David poured out his heart (Psalm 12:1-2). • Affirm that grief over sin’s advance is righteous, not weak (Ezekiel 9:4). 2. Point to the Unchanging Word • Read aloud God’s promises: “The words of the LORD are flawless” (Psalm 12:6). • Recommend memorizing stabilizing passages—Philippians 2:15; 2 Timothy 3:1-5—to reframe what they see around them. 3. Highlight God’s Track Record • Tell biblical cases where holiness shone in depraved times—Noah (Genesis 6-9), Joseph (Genesis 39-41), Daniel (Daniel 1-6). • Share modern testimonies of believers who influenced dark settings. 4. Model Courageous Holiness • Live visibly set apart (1 Peter 2:12). Consistency encourages more than words. • Celebrate even small acts of faithfulness so others see obedience is possible. 5. Strengthen Fellowship • Invite them into regular gatherings—“not neglecting to meet together” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Use group prayer and Scripture reading to refocus on God’s sufficiency. 6. Equip for Spiritual Battle • Walk through the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-13) piece by piece. • Teach them to counter lies with truth, discouragement with the “helmet of salvation.” 7. Keep an Eternal Horizon • Remind them “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). • Explain the certainty of divine justice: Psalm 73; Romans 2:5-8. • Encourage perseverance: “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast… knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) 8. Invite Them to Serve • Direct discouragement outward: visit the needy, mentor youth, share the gospel (Galatians 6:9-10). • Active ministry shifts eyes from the darkness to the Light working through them. Closing Perspective Vileness may capture headlines, but it cannot dethrone the Lord. By listening, directing to Scripture, modeling holiness, and walking together in hope, believers become living proofs that God’s goodness still reigns—and that hope, not despair, is the final word. |
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