Timeless Wisdom From ProverbsSample

The book of Proverbs urges us to cling to God’s Word, no matter what the culture around us is doing. In Proverbs 1, Solomon talked about the danger of giving in to peer pressure: “My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. If they say, ‘Come with us…,” my son, do not walk in the way with them. Keep your feet from their path, for their feet run to evil” (1:10–11, 15–16). And in Proverbs 4, he said, “Do not enter the path of the wicked and do not proceed in the way of evil men. Avoid it, do not pass by it; turn away from it and pass on” (4:14–15, NASB95).

Yet many Christians are compromising their beliefs and condoning what others are doing, including attitudes and behaviors the Word of God clearly calls sin. These Christians agree with secularists that sin isn’t really a big deal. In fact, the word “sin” is rarely used in our national discourse to describe behaviors that are outside of God’s standards.

If we’re not careful, we can become swallowed up in the quicksand of our corrupt culture. Some Christians sell out spiritually by surrendering to our culture’s moral temptations. Other Christians sell out their faith to political correctness. Caving to peer pressure, they remain silent instead of proclaiming God’s truth, fearful of being shunned or labeled a “religious fanatic.” And if they have a friend who is willing to stand up for truth, then they distance themselves from that person, not wanting to experience any of the negative fallout.

Unbelievers in our world have seen plenty of fakes and phonies who give in to peer pressure. What they have not seen nearly enough of is authentic and winsome Christianity lived out with wisdom and grace. If we are to influence our culture, we must begin on our knees. Show me a believer who is effective in public, and I will show you a believer who is effective in private.

As Christians, our efforts to influence our culture are neither convenient nor comfortable, not when we’re standing for God in a sinful, corrupt generation. But even if you have to stand alone, I urge you to stand without bending, because you never know who you are influencing.