How can we protect ourselves from being influenced by those who "do not call"? Setting the Scene “Will all the evildoers never understand? They devour My people like bread; they refuse to call upon the LORD.” (Psalm 14:4) Why Influence Matters • Influence shapes thinking, thinking shapes choices, choices shape destiny (Proverbs 4:23). • Those who “refuse to call upon the LORD” stand outside the life-giving relationship we enjoy (Psalm 1:6). • Scripture warns that ungodly influence corrupts good character (1 Corinthians 15:33). Spotting Those Who Do Not Call • Habitual disregard for God’s Word (Psalm 119:155). • Mockery or dilution of biblical truth (2 Peter 3:3–4). • Celebration of sin or pressure to normalize it (Isaiah 5:20). • Self-reliance that crowds out dependence on the Lord (Jeremiah 17:5). Why Their Influence Is Dangerous • It dulls spiritual discernment (Hebrews 3:13). • It invites compromise that spreads like yeast (Galatians 5:9). • It hinders fellowship with God (James 4:4). • It can lead to shared judgment (Revelation 18:4). Biblical Safeguards 1. Separate from unequal partnerships – “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.” (2 Corinthians 6:14) 2. Saturate your mind with Scripture – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) 3. Surround yourself with godly companions – “He who walks with the wise will become wise.” (Proverbs 13:20) 4. Stay alert through prayer and watchfulness – “Watch and pray, so that you will not enter into temptation.” (Matthew 26:41) 5. Suit up in spiritual armor – “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:11) Practical Daily Habits • Begin each morning in the Word before engaging voices of the world. • Evaluate entertainment: Does it honor the Lord or erode reverence? • Limit time with people who drag your heart from God; invest in those who spur you toward Christ (Hebrews 10:24). • Speak truth lovingly when pressured to compromise (Ephesians 4:15). • Memorize key verses to counter subtle lies (Psalm 119:11). Encouraging Promises • God shields those who trust Him (Psalm 18:30). • He grants wisdom generously when asked (James 1:5). • The Holy Spirit guides into all truth (John 16:13). • Those who delight in His law flourish like a tree planted by streams of water (Psalm 1:1–3). Holding firmly to these truths keeps us safe from the sway of those who will not call on the Lord and frees us to shine as clear, uncompromised witnesses of His grace. |
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