“Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.” — Proverbs 22:25
“But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works.” — Psalm 106:35
God warns that close association influences conduct. Israel did not become like the heathen overnight. First, they mingled with them. Then they learned their ways. Eventually, they practiced the very sins God had commanded them to avoid. The same progression is seen in Proverbs 22:25: you start tolerating behavior, then excusing it, and eventually practicing it.
The danger is not always open rebellion at first. A believer may begin by overlooking sinful attitudes, laughing at ungodly speech, or justifying worldly habits. Over time, what once grieved the heart becomes acceptable, and what becomes acceptable eventually becomes practiced.
Solomon — 1 Kings 11:1-4
King Solomon began by forming close relationships with heathen wives. At first, he tolerated their presence and influence. Then he excused their false worship. Finally, he participated in their idolatry. The wisest man in the world learned that close association leads to imitation.
Peter — Luke 22:54-62
After the arrest of Christ, Peter followed afar off and sat among those who opposed the Lord. By placing himself in the company of Christ’s enemies, he gradually became influenced by the atmosphere around him. Before long, he was speaking and acting in a manner inconsistent with his devotion to Christ, even denying the Lord three times.
Choose companions carefully. The people you walk with will shape your thinking, influence your attitudes, and affect your spiritual direction.
1 Corinthians 15:33 — “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.”
Truth to Remember: Close association leads to imitation. You start tolerating behavior, then excusing it, and eventually practicing it.
Walk with God and with those who encourage you to do the same.