Pastor's Ponderings, August 10, 2015

"Byrdes of on kynde and color flok and flye allwayes together.”

Birds of a feather flock together.  This saying, which originated over four hundred years ago by William Turner, means that people who think alike tend to align themselves with each other.  That can be a frightening thought if you examine your list of acquaintances.  Some people with disturbing habits may show up on your list.  People on your list may have supported your bad habits, dicey decision-making, and terrible choices.

The Bible says that we should not be involved with people who may lead us into wrong actions (1 Corinthians 15:33). Proverbs also says that ill-intentioned companions may want you to do bad things.  We have to leave them unless we want to come to a bad end like them (Proverbs 1:10, 11, 18).  This is not to say that we should run from all people with questionable habits, but we should not let them be our primary group of friends and associates.

The Bible speaks of groups and how they can be supportive.  God shows up when at least two or three come together as His followers. He is there with them and if they agree about anything, God will do it for them (Matthew 18:19, 20).  God, the Father, wants us to build each other in our groups and support each other (1 Thessalonians 5:11).  The Bible also says that groups that are harmony can defend each other against their enemies (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

Let us strive to be with people who are supportive of our relationship with Christ and let us encourage others to avoid being with those who have bad intentions.  A great benefit is that God says that He will give His blessing when groups are in harmony with Him and each other (Psalm 133:1, 3).  Let us flock together with those who will support and encourage our walk with Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:33

New International Version (NIV)

33 Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

Proverbs 1:10, 11, 18
New International Version (NIV)

10 My son, if sinful men entice you, do not give in to them.

11 If they say, “Come along with us; let’s lie in wait for innocent blood, let’s ambush some harmless soul;

18 These men lie in wait for their own blood; they ambush only themselves!

Matthew 18:19, 20
New International Version (NIV)

19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.

20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

New International Version (NIV)

11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Ecclesiastes 4:12
New International Version (NIV)

12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Psalm 133:1, 3

New International Version (NIV)

1 How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!

3 It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.