Guarding the Next Generation: The Peril of Bad Influence (Proverbs 22:3)
Scripture Reading: Proverbs 22:3
"A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished."
Introduction:
Our hearts ache when we witness young people drifting away from the church, abandoning the faith they once held dear. While there are many contributing factors, one of the most potent and insidious is the influence of bad company. Today, we will explore the dangers of negative peer pressure and equip ourselves with wisdom to protect the next generation.
I. Why Are We Losing Our Young People? The Power of Bad Influence
A. The Warning: The Path of the Wicked (Proverbs 12:26)
"The righteous should choose his friends carefully, for the way of the wicked leads them astray."
This proverb serves as a stark warning, highlighting the profound impact of our social circles.
We must acknowledge the power of friendship, even when it’s subtle.
If we do not choose friends carefully, they may choose our path.
We must look at the warnings scripture provides.
B. Scriptural Warnings:
Proverbs 12:26: As stated, the way of the wicked leads astray.
Exodus 34:12-16: God warns against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land, lest they lead Israel into idolatry.
Proverbs 1:10-19: Solomon warns against joining with those who plot violence and seek ill-gotten gain.
Proverbs 22:24-25: We are cautioned against associating with angry men, lest we learn their ways.
1 Corinthians 15:33: "Do not be deceived: 'Evil company corrupts good habits.'"
C. How Bad Influence Takes Hold:
Gradual Drift (Hebrews 2:1): Like a boat slowly drifting from its moorings, young people can gradually drift away from their faith.
Desensitization to Sin (Psalm 1:1): By associating with those who embrace sin, young people can become desensitized to its destructive nature.
Pressure When Outnumbered (Exodus 23:2, 33; Romans 12:2): When surrounded by those who reject God's ways, young people can feel immense pressure to conform.
Becoming Like Them (Proverbs 23:20-21; 13:20): "He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed." We tend to become like those with whom we associate.
D. A Simple Solution: Recognizing Incompatibility
Recognize Incompatibility (Deuteronomy 22:9-11; Proverbs 29:27; John 15:19): We must acknowledge that there is a fundamental incompatibility between the ways of the world and the ways of God.
John 15:19, "If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates1 you."
Do Not Be Unequally Yoked (2 Corinthians 6:14-17): We are called to avoid forming close relationships with those who do not share our faith.
Look at the End (Nehemiah 13:23-26; Ecclesiastes 7:8): We must consider the long-term consequences of our choices, recognizing that the end of a thing is often more revealing than its beginning.
II. Practical Steps to Protect Our Young People:
A. Open Communication:
Create an environment where young people feel safe to discuss their friendships and struggles.
Encourage them to seek counsel from godly mentors.
B. Teach Discernment:
Equip young people with the ability to discern between godly and ungodly influences.
Teach them to evaluate friendships based on biblical principles.
C. Foster Godly Friendships:
Create opportunities for young people to build strong, supportive relationships within the church.
Encourage them to participate in youth groups and other church activities.
D. Parental Involvement:
Parents must be actively involved in their children's lives, knowing their friends and monitoring their activities.
Set clear boundaries and expectations.
E. Prayer:
Pray fervently for the protection of our young people, asking God to surround them with godly influences.
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Conclusion:
The influence of bad company is a powerful force that can lead young people astray. But we are not powerless. By understanding the dangers, equipping our young people with wisdom, and fostering godly relationships, we can protect them from the snares of the world. Let us be vigilant, discerning, and prayerful, guarding the next generation and leading them into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Amen.
