THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT

Tainted Environment

The chameleon changes color to match its environment. Similarly, those who make criminals their companions are more likely to adopt criminal characteristics.  The Bible warns:  "You must not follow after the crowd for evil ends." (Exodus 23:2)  On the other hand, frequent association with those who are honest, just, and morally upright promotes the doing of good. -Proverbs 13:20. 

However, we cannot consider ourselves safe from the influence of evil just because we do not personally associate with those who are involved in wrong doing. Because of our imperfection, evil may lurk in the recesses of our mind, waiting for an opportunity  to assert itself.  (Genesis 4:7)  Furthermore, evil may reach into our home through the media. Video games, television programs, and movies often glorify violence and acts of vengeance. Even regular doses of world or local news may desensitize us to the evils of human suffering and anguish. 

What is the root of this tainted environment?  The  Bible answers: "The whole world is in the power of the evil one." ( 1 John 8:44)  He  propagates evil through the influence of this world.

With all these factors shaping our attitudes and actions, some may reason that they are not to blame for their evil acts. What, though,  is the reality? Just as a steering wheel controls the direction of a car and a rudder controls the direction of a ship, the mind controls the body. 

Next time: THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT - Good or Evil-The Choice Is Yours

From the AWAKE! magazine, 2010