Dealing with Evil

(continued from previous post)

“Stay away from every kind of evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:22 NLT)

Here are some of the main points from the last few days:

Evil exists.

It can infect our souls.

It can be subtle and difficult to identify.

Ignoring it is dangerous.

We use specially trained dogs to sniff out explosives. Then the bomb squad goes in to detonate the weapon. They know the danger. They are trained and equipped to handle these situations. This is not a job for everyone. Many of us will need assistance from those who are specially skilled to recognize evil and defuse it.

The best approach to dealing with evil is to stay away from it. Reject any person or practice that may expose you to darkness. If you see something that even remotely looks like poison ivy or a venomous snake, it’s not wise to get closer for confirmation; just get away. Another way to keep evil from infecting you is to increase your spiritual immunity. Infuse your life with goodness--surround yourself with those who are pure, noble, humble, truthful, authentic, compassionate, generous, consistent, ethical, and life-giving. Ask God to protect you and direct you. Remain vigilant.

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”  (Romans 12:21 NIV)