Faith & Reason Nexus

Scripture teaches us to avoid various forms of evil in order to live righteous lives pleasing to God. Here are some key evils to avoid according to the Bible:

1. All Appearance of Evil

• 1 Thessalonians 5:22 – “Abstain from all appearance of evil.”
  We should avoid situations, actions, or even associations that may appear sinful, even if they are not inherently evil, to maintain a good testimony and avoid stumbling others.

2. All Worldly Evil

• Galatians 1:4 – “Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world…”
  The world is full of evil desires and temptations. Christians are called to separate themselves from worldly influences that lead to sin and spiritual corruption.

3. All Evil Desires

• Romans 1:20-28 – This passage talks about the descent into sin when people reject God, leading to a mind full of evil desires.
  We must guard our hearts and minds against covetousness, lust, pride, and other evil desires that can lead us astray from God’s truth.

4. An Evil Conscience

• 1 Thessalonians 5:22 – Along with avoiding the appearance of evil, Christians are encouraged to maintain a clear conscience.
  An evil conscience is one that is not at peace with God, often due to unconfessed sin or rebellion. We must keep our conscience pure by walking in integrity and seeking forgiveness when we fall.

5. An Evil Heart

• Hebrews 3:12 – “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.”
  An evil heart refers to unbelief and rebellion against God. We are urged to guard against hardening our hearts to God’s voice, as this leads to spiritual destruction.

Are You Avoiding Evil?
As believers, we must continually examine our lives and ensure we are avoiding the evils that can hinder our relationship with God. We are called to live pure, holy lives, and to turn away from the temptations that seek to draw us away from His will.

Avoid these things! Let us strive to walk in the light of God’s truth and avoid all forms of evil that might taint our lives and witness for Christ.