Old Testament Truths, In A Post Modern World

S-Scripture:  Psalm 26:5, “I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.”  (KJV)

O-Observation:  It seems in this Psalm that David is not comfortable with the evil doers.  As a matter of fact, David pleads his case to the Lord by saying, “I have hated the congregation of evil doers…”. He was not going to associate with the wicked.  He was not going to allow the acts of the wicked to hinder his walk with the Lord. 

For the most part, David understood the concept of being in the world, but not of the world.  This verse made me think a lot about our modern thoughts concerning those who are outside the Christian faith.  What is our response to them?  Should we hang out in the bars, the clubs, the places where outsiders hang out?  I have heard of several people who believe we should do these things.  Personally, I find it hard to connect this verse with the modern thoughts of many who believe we should be in these places.  There are several reasons for my thoughts.

• The Bars and the Clubs are not the only establishments of evil doers.
• We are told to abstain from the appearance of evil.
• Community is built on relationships, not on being in a place where your interior motives is to “convert” the “sinners” to Christ. 
• If I am going to reach people outside of the Christian Faith, it is going to be done through the Power of the Holy Spirit, and the preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Nothing else will do it!

A-Application:  Some of my application probably came out in the observation, but I wanted to say that I am not trying to be judgmental toward those who are reaching people in these establishments.  I am talking personally about my convictions and values.  When I am around the “congregation of evil doers” I, personally do not fit in, nor should I want to fit in.  My goal is not conformity to the world’s standards and values, my goal is to take the gospel of Jesus Christ, preach it, live it, and love people who do not have it.   

P-Prayer:  Dear Heavenly Father, We are to hate the congregation of evil doers.  We are to love people, share Jesus with them, and build a genuine community of friendships with those outside the Christian faith.  You have not told us to convert anyone, but you have told us to be witnesses in all the world.  Help me to love the lost, care for the dying, and genuinely be a person lost people can feel comfortable around.  I need your help in reaching people.  I trust You, Lord!  In Jesus Name.  Amen.