"My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. If they say, “Come with us, let us lie in wait for blood; let us ambush the innocent without reason; like Sheol let us swallow them alive, and whole, like those who go down to the pit; we shall find all precious goods, we shall fill our houses with plunder; throw in your lot among us; we will all have one purse”— my son, do not walk in the way with them; hold back your foot from their paths," Proverbs 1:10-15 ESV
As a long distance runner, I am keenly aware of the toll that running hundreds of miles every year has taken on my feet. With many of my toenails permanently damaged and missing, they aren't the prettiest things to look at, that's for sure. But I count myself fortunate when I consider, according to an article published recently by healthline, the litany of other problems that I could possibly have as a result of running so many miles including blisters, Hallux Rigidus, Plantar Fasciitis, stress fractures, Metatarsalgia, or Morton's Neuroma. Thankfully, one of the best ways to prevent these foot issues or injuries besides wearing the right shoes is to avoid running on concrete or asphalt surfaces whenever possible; something this lover of trail paths and gravel roads will be more than happy to do.
And you know, when it comes to keeping our feet on the right path, Solomon (the wisest man who ever lived) gave us these words of wisdom regarding sinners who would try to entice us to join them in their sin—namely in their pursuit to "ambush the innocent without reason" to gain money, possessions and status—"do not consent." In other words, do not permit, approve or agree with anything they do or ask you to do. More simply said... don't go along with the crowd. And not only don't go along with the crowd... "hold back your foot from their paths." Did you notice that Solomon didn't say hold back your feet? Don't get that far! One step in the direction of following the wicked is one step too many! And one foot on the path of those who "lie in wait" is one foot too many! Hold back your foot!
So in a world where it's tempting to follow those who are doing evil to avoid being canceled, censored, mocked, or banned in this present time, don't do it my friend! This world and everything in it will soon pass away and any fame or riches you might have acquired for selling out will be worthless. Stand firm for Christ. Stand firm for the Truth. Remain faithful and keep your feet on the right path so that you might receive the reward of eternal life.
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us wisdom and discernment as we see the Day approaching. Help us to stand firm in our faith and to never waver in our profession that You are Lord despite the consequences. Let us be so set apart from the world that the lost might be drawn to us to hear the Good News of the Gospel that we must be ready to share. It's in Your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.
Happy Running!!!
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