THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT

Good or Evil-The Choice Is Yours

Every deliberate act, good or evil, is preceded by a thought. Sowing positive and virtuous thoughts reaps good fruitage. Conversely, if seeds of selfish desires are allowed to germinate in the mind a bumper crop of evil is likely to result.  (Luke 6:43-45;  James 1:14, 15)  Thus, it could be said that man is as good or as evil as he chooses to be.

Happily, the Bible indicates the goodness can be learned. (Isaiah 1:16, 17)  Love is the compelling force to do what is good, since "love does not work evil to one's neighbor." (Romans 13:10) When we cultivate love for people, it is unthinkable for us to act in an evil way toward anyone. 

That is what Ray, from Pennsylvania, U.S.A., learned.  Taught to fight at an early age, he quickly earned the nickname Punch. He also struggled  with a quick temper.  With the application of Bible principles, however, he gradually made changes. But this was not always easy. At times, he felt the way Bible writer Paul did:  "When I wish to do what is right, what is bad is present with me." (Romans 7:21) Now, after years of determined effort, Ray is able to 'conquer the evil with the good.' -Romans 12:21. 

Why is it worth the effort to "walk in the way of good people"?  (Proverbs 2:20-22) Because good will ultimately triumph over evil the Bible states:  "Evildoers themselves will be cut-off . . .Just a little while longer, and the wicked one will be no more . . .But the meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." (Psalm 37:9-11) God will remove all traces of evil.  What a glorious future awaits who work diligently to practice good! 

Next time: Christ The Power of God

From the AWAKE! magazine, 2010