Guilty by Association

Even though it is sad when people get in trouble, disciplined or even imprisoned for doing wrong, we often find it easier to understand because we all have to pay for our actions. However, what about those people who are guilty just because of their association? Many are dead, in trouble or have been in trouble for just being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

And he went up from thence unto Beth–el: and as he was going up by the way, there came forth little children out of the city, and mocked him, and said unto him, Go up, thou bald head; go up, thou bald head. And he turned back, and looked on them, and cursed them in the name of the Lord. And there came forth two she bears out of the wood, and tare forty and two children of them. (2 Kings 2:23-24)

Elisha just lost his dear leader and was beginning a new journey in his walk with The Lord, and as soon as it began there came little kids to mock him. The kids mocked his head and told him to go up to Heaven (referring to Elijah). After he cursed them, two bears destroyed FORTY-TWO children. I just believe that there could have been at least one child in that group who just tagged along. Maybe didn’t mean harm or even said anything, just smiled and laughed with friends. However, hanging with the wrong crowd will destroy you. You may think it’s just “idle fun”, but idleness is the devil’s playground. Stay away from bad company.

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. (Proverbs 13:20)

Learn to stay with the right crowd because your company either invests in you or take away from you. God’s Word says not to give in when people try to cause you to act foolishly (Proverbs 1:10). You have to understand your worth. Surround yourself with people that push you towards Christ, not with those indulging in sin. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying to avoid those who aren’t saved yet, God does want you to reach out to them. However, God’s Word says to avoid hanging out with those who are fornicators, liars, rebellious, etc. and claim to be believers (1 Corinthians 5:9-13). God loves everyone and He wants us to love others, but He does not want us in groups or crowds that will encourage sin and foolish behavior.

I know this is not popular teaching, but we all must hear it. If people ever want to hang out or talk, keep the conversation centered around Christ. After all, we want to win our brothers and sisters back to Christ. Just do not allow yourself to get caught up in the circle. We must learn that we can’t bring everyone where God wants us.

Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Sometimes, elevation requires separation.

– Tovares Grey

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