Following the Crowd

“My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.” Proverbs 1:10 NASB

It is a danger for any Believer. For any person. This is the temptation to follow the crowd. To believe something just because it seems popular (or because a famous person says it is true). To do something because “everyone is doing it.”

To resist these movements can seem like swimming upstream or hopelessly fighting the inevitable. The easiest thing is to go along with the crowd, without thinking. Without praying.

These patterns are repeated endlessly, every day. We see this in politics and education. Fashion and social customs. Language and entertainment. How many hear loud voices and just echo their message, closing their minds to long-term implications. Not thinking clearly about the fundamental meaning, or the eternal consequences. Not seeking God’s wisdom or perspective.

This pattern has been prominent throughout time, and was one of the first issues addressed in the book of Proverbs. There, we are warned not to “consent” if we are tempted to go along with the crowd. We are to be on the alert to patterns that promise that we get ahead or find riches through questionable means.

We are to be concerned and cautious when we are invited to join a movement. And, regardless of the pressures, we are to stand for Truth and do what is right. In fact, we are to “keep your feet from their path,” realizing that what might appear harmless can be fraught with unforeseen dangers.

These are reasons why Proverbs gives us such strong warnings. Why we are encouraged to remember the real source of wisdom. Why we need discernment and understanding. Why we need to be careful about our relationships. Why we need to realize that God is the source of wisdom, and that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” Why we always must seek His wisdom, remembering that “fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

Prayer: Father, I need discernment. Help me avoid compromise and stay true to Your Word. Give me boldness and courage to stand firm for the truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.