What practical steps help us "abhor what is evil" in today's society? Anchoring Our Definition of Evil in God’s Word - Romans 12:9: “Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good.” - Evil is whatever God labels evil, not what culture excuses (Isaiah 5:20). - Daily Bible intake—reading, audio, memorization—keeps the lines bright (Psalm 119:11). - Psalm 97:10: “Hate evil, O you who love the LORD!” The more we love Him, the more we loathe what opposes Him. Cultivating Holy Affections - Ask the Spirit to ignite deeper love for Christ; love crowds out sinful cravings (Galatians 5:16–17). - Spend unrushed time in worship and thanksgiving—affections follow attention (Mark 12:30). - Proverbs 8:13: “To fear the LORD is to hate evil.” Reverence fuels revulsion. Guarding the Gateways - Proverbs 4:23: “Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” - Media filters: judge shows, music, and feeds by Philippians 4:8. - Internet disciplines: accountability software, shared passwords, history checks (Ephesians 5:11). - Mental checkpoints: when a corrupt thought slips in, take it captive and replace it with truth (2 Corinthians 10:5). Choosing Sanctifying Community - 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good character.” - Prioritize friendships that cheer holiness and lovingly confront compromise (Hebrews 10:24–25). - Join a small group where confession is normal and Scripture is central. Practicing Discerning Engagement - John 17:15-16: in the world, not of it. - 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22: “Test all things… Abstain from every form of evil.” - Before attending an event, ask: Will this help me shine light or blur the lines? - Be ready to give a gracious “No” when participation requires moral surrender. Keeping Short Accounts With Sin - 1 John 1:9: confess quickly; keep the conscience tender. - Refuse to rename or minimize “small” sins—James 1:14-15 shows they grow deadly. - Trusted accountability partners ask hard, specific questions. Filling Life With What Is Good - Romans 12:21: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” - Replace empty hours with: • Acts of service (Galatians 6:10) • Scripture memory challenges • Creative pursuits—music, art, writing—that honor the Lord - Goodness isn’t mere avoidance; it is purposeful, joyful action. Living Out Love Without Compromise - We hate evil because we love people; sin destroys what God loves (Jude 22-23). - Speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15); compassion never requires affirmation of sin. - A life that consistently detests evil yet radiates humble love becomes a living invitation to the gospel. |
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