Living in the Danger Zone

Tony Mauck

As our generally ungodly society progressively worsens, it should be no surprise to see individuals who wear the name "Christian" also heading in this direction. Some have the attitude “how close can I get to sin without sinning? Just how much can I get away with? How little can I do and be pleasing to God?” Thus, being influenced by the world, they are living in the danger zone. The eternal welfare of their soul is jeopardized. May I suggest some areas where the influence of the world is great and a word of caution is needed.

Evil companions. Paul forewarned in 1 Corinthians 15:33, ''Do not be deceived: bad company corrupts good morals." The people Paul had in mind may not have been "absolute filth." Maybe his warning simply had to do with spending too much time with folks who have no redeeming spiritual qualities or Godward inclinations. Being distracted from our spiritual warfare allows Satan an opportunity to take advantage of us. He will use anything or anybody he can to accomplish his purposes. Letting others determine your behavior or do your thinking for you is quite perilous spiritually. If you're in need of some good companionship, and we all are, why not spend your time with brothers and sisters in the Lord?

Media indulgence. The information we filter through our mind undoubtedly affects the way we think and behave. To continually fill our minds with the world's philosophy is quite harmful whether by television, radio, movies or magazines. Seeing or hearing that which is immoral filth has no redeeming value. Also, we must be careful not to take a lighthearted or tolerant attitude toward sin when we witness it.

Immodesty. It's hard to feel comfortable when you "stick out like a sore thumb" in a crowd, but the Christian must, if the majority does evil. Regardless of the world's standard of dress, Christians must adorn themselves in a manner that reflects the proper attitude of heart (1 Timothy 2:9-10). The sacrifice of comfort and peer acceptance is a small price to pay in glorifying God. Beware of the dangers associated with immodest dress, evil influence, lust, sexual promiscuity, etc.

"And things like these" (Galatians 5:19-21). Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, narcotics, modern forms of dance. Being engaged in these practices cannot strengthen us spiritually. They will only weaken us. Any small participation in or even too much association with these practices hurls one into the danger zone spiritually.

Beware of living in the Danger Zone! "Abstain from every form of evil" (1 Thessalonians 5:22).