December 13 - Thought for the day.....dealing with evil

There is both good and evil in the world. Just a few minutes watching the news ensures us that there is evil and following the life of a true Christ-follower should remind us of good.

In yesterday's "thought" I mentioned overcoming hypocrisy is really about love. Love can not be real love unless you love enough to stand for those you love and against evil. Paul says in part "b" of Romans 12:9

"Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good."

"Abhor" is not a word I use everyday but Paul's use here is strong. The intent is to stand against, don't allow, be repulsed by, anything that would be evil. It is to completely back away from anything that is evil. The culture in the Middle East at this time, was Roman which is actually not unlike our culture today. Pleasure at the sacrifice of others and selfishness were the norm and this is what most Christ-followers came from. I know it may seem cliche but the idea would be; if Jesus were standing beside you, would you be doing what you are doing. If it is something you know to be wrong, then you should not simple stay away from it but be repulsed by it.

What is evil? Anything that goes directly against what God's Word says. Anything that could potentially harm, body, mind, or spirit. Anything that would hinder you from fulfilling the destiny God created for you, anything that would limit the love, joy, and peace God has planned for you. Practically, think about what you watch on TV, what you view on the internet, the conversations you have with others...evil or good?

In our culture we are surrounded by so much evil how do we overcome? The word Paul uses for "cling" means to glue or cement something together so tightly that it can not be separated. It suggests also working at "clinging to the good". 

The good are the things that the Bible outlines that are beneficial and a strength to body, mind, and soul. These are the things that are profitable to you being fulfilled, blessed, and for you to live out your destiny.

Take time to notice both the evil and the good around you. How do certain TV shows, movies, conversations, things on the internet make you feel? The more time you spend with the Lord the more you can tell the difference between the evil and the good, real lasting love, joy, and peace, versus the temporary versions our culture offers.