^“You shall not follow a crowd to do evil…” Exodus 23.2

In a few words, the above verse instructs and warns. This is very important to our daily life. Those around us have great influence over us. Whether we like it or not, we end up being influenced by what we see, conversations we hear, by examples, habits, ideas, and the behavior of others. It’s very difficult not to be influenced.

That’s why God gave us this warning: Don’t associate with those who will lead you astray. He knows, once we are near them, it’s almost impossible not to be influenced by them; so He advises us to cut off evil by the root: don’t have contact with these people.

Instead of going on and on about this, I would like to give you some practical suggestions on how you can practice this verse, that is if you want:

1. Look at the contact list on your phone, e-mail, MSN, Facebook, Twitter, etc, and start to delete everyone who doesn’t add anything good to your life. Only keep the contacts of those who are a good influence on you.
2. Don’t add any more friends, to your virtual community, that you don’t know.
3. If someone contacts you even though you cut off all connections to them, and you know their intentions are not good, or they just bring you negativity, be brief and harsh: ask that person to stop contacting you immediately. And, if this person wants to be stubborn and insist, consider changing your phone number and e-mail address etc.
4. Look for good people to associate with. You’re probably not going to find a crowd. There are few who want to walk through the narrow door, but try to find them.
5. Even if you’re following  people who are a good influence on you, and you’re learning from them, remember to keep your eyes on the Lord Jesus, because only He will never let you down.
6. If you’re moved to share this message with a friend that comes to mind, do so.

“My son, if sinners entice you, Do not consent.” Proverbs 1.10