"My son, do not go along
with them, do not set foot... for their feet rush into evil, they are swift to
shed blood."
Proverbs 1:15 warns against associating with wicked people. In the
Christian life, the concept of guarding one's associations is deeply rooted in
Scripture, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals
who encourage spiritual growth and uphold biblical values. The Bible provides
numerous teachings and examples that highlight the significance of choosing
one's companions wisely.
The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in 1 Corinthians 15:33 , "Do
not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" Here, Paul warns
the Corinthian church about the dangers of being influenced by those who do not
share their commitment to Christ. The context of this passage involves false
teachings about the resurrection, illustrating how associations can affect
one's beliefs and moral integrity.
Speaking of bad associations, in the Winter of 1860-1861, the South
decided it could no longer be in Union with the United States. The U.S. had
been given over to the Yankee industrialists and robber barons that sought to
shackle Dixie with unfair tariffs and taxes. Morally, the North was given up to
secular humanists and Universalists, who rejected God and sought the divine
self within. It was simply time for the South to part ways with "those
people." Jefferson Davis, said (paraphrase) "I love this Country and I love the
Constitution, but I would rather leave the Union with the Constitution than
stay in the Union without the Constitution." The separation was intended
to be a peaceful one. Even in his inauguration address, our President went on
to say that "all we ask is to be left alone." Alas, the Yankees could
not let go of the South and, as Lincoln said, "her revenue."
In my very lengthy time with the SCV, we have, at times, been unfairly
associated with persons and organizations of lackluster reputation. Some were
within the organization, some without, that were and are contrary to the core
Christian SCV morals and values. They
did not and do not reflect the portion of the SCV Charge that calls upon us
"to emulate the virtues" of the Confederate soldier. As individuals
and as an organization we have been and must stay vigilant against these elements. As Proverbs states,
we do not need to be put on the same path as them. Their path goes against the
word of God and the teachings of Christ. Christian men of virtue like Gens. Lee
and Jackson would even find them repugnant.
Guarding one's associations involves discernment and intentionality.
Believers are called to engage with the world and share the gospel, yet they
must remain vigilant about the influences they allow into their lives. This
includes evaluating friendships, partnerships, and even the media/ social media
consumed. Philippians 4:8 provides guidance: "Finally, brothers, whatever
is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever
is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think
on these things."
In summary, the Bible consistently teaches the importance of guarding
one's associations to maintain spiritual integrity and growth. By choosing
companions who encourage righteousness and faithfulness, believers can better
fulfill their calling to live as lights in a dark world.
Amen.
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