Bulletin Articles: Full Article for Record Number 1008
Verses Of Admonition And Exhortation
by Larry Ray Hafley
Below are some verses that warn, instruct, and encourage. Of course, there are many more. You might want to compile a list for your own private meditation. They are good, not just "for young folks," but for all.
"My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent" (Prov. 1:10).
"Thorns and snares are in the way of the perverse; he who guards his soul will be far from them" (Prov. 22:5).
"Do not let your heart envy sinners, but in the fear of the Lord continue all day long" (Prov. 23:17).
"Do not be envious of evil men, nor desire to be with them; for their heart devises violence, and their lips talk of troublemaking" (Prov. 24:1, 2).
"Do not be deceived: ’Evil company corrupts good habits’" (1 Cor. 15:33).
Are there areas of your life where these verses might be applied? If so, apply them. Are there temptations to sin which are especially appealing to you where these passages might be used? If so, use them.
Are there certain programs, movies, or other forms of entertainment, such as the lyrics of "rap songs," which these Scriptures address? If so, avoid them. Are there dances or other social gatherings which might fit these texts? If so, you know what to do. Now, do it!
Knowing what you know about the dangers of associating with impious, irreverent, ungodly folks, perhaps these last few words may be of help to you.
"I am a companion of all those who fear You, And of those who keep Your precepts" (Psa. 119:63).
"Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy meditate on these things" (Phil. 4:8).
