EMPOWERING LIVES WITH PURPOSE:
Flee the appearances of evil. And avoid situations, actions, or relationships that might give the impression of wrongdoing, even if they aren’t inherently evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 commands us as believers to “abstain from all appearance of evil”
No, we are not talking about an insect on an animal. We are talking about RUNNING away from something! Get away from evil!
We are to not only avoid actual evil but also to be cautious in how we act, speak, and associate with it to avoid giving the appearance of engaging in sin or immoral behavior.
You must protect your reputation and prevent misunderstandings or accusations that can come against you if you are associated with an evil act. It’s about being mindful of how others might perceive your actions and ensure you are not creating a situation where you are perceived as doing something wrong. Even if you are not, the Bible tells us to avoid all appearances!!!!
For many of us, this might involve avoiding certain types of media, associating with people who may be tempted to engage in immoral activities, or being careful about how we present ourselves to others.
Distinguish what God says to your heart and don’t be a hypocrite, which involves pretending to be virtuous while secretly engaging in sinful behavior.
“Fleeing the appearances of evil” is about avoiding the impression of evil, not the act of evil itself.
Flee all evil. And leave the fleas to deal with their own choices of where they land in eternity.