In Agreement!

When teens desire to be involved in some activities, they may go to their parents with the hope of gaining their CONSENT to go. To have the CONSENT of another (whether that be from parents, teachers, peers, or others) is to have their blessing (or permission) because they are in agreement with the activity. When we CONSENT to do something we ourselves are expressing our agreement that it is okay to do.

In the first chapter of Proverbs, Solomon exhorted. . .
“My son, if sinners entice you, DO NOT CONSENT.” ( Proverbs 1:10 ESV)

A few verses further Solomon urged to refrain from walking in the way with them and to hold back the foot from their paths. ( Proverbs 1:15)

Whatever invitations we give in to need to be given serious consideration. There are things some people will do when encouraged by others that they would never consider doing alone. Don’t give in or CONSENT to that which is not in agreement with the path of truth and righteousness.

In Paul’s second letter to the church at Corinth he asked. . .
“(14) Do NOT BE UNEQUALLY YOKED with unbelievers. For WHAT PARTNERSHIP has righteousness with lawlessness? Or WHAT FELLOWSHIP has light with darkness? (15) WHAT ACCORD has Christ with Belial? Or WHAT PORTION does a believer share with an unbeliever?” ( 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 ESV)

Though some have limited this “unequally yoked” principle to marriage, Paul’s context covers a much broader spectrum of life. Giving serious consideration to who one marries and the impact and influence it can have on life’s direction is of great significance, but this is also true with regard to who it is we join in agreement with for other activities of life. It is important to understand the influence others can have on us when we throw our CONSENT into the ring with theirs.

The questions Paul posed above were not necessarily in need of being answered. These contrasting couplets listed should naturally draw the attention to the reality certain things just do not mix with the worship of God and the Christian walk. Some things just cannot be matched together no matter how one tries. Who we closely bond with and the activities that go along with that “partnership” or “fellowship” is worth serious consideration. Do we really agree with what we are being encouraged to do? If those things are not in agreement with truth and righteousness then let us not CONSENT to being involved. A few moments of ridicule by those who would urge us to join them is a small price to pay compared to the cost of CONSENTING to walk down the wrong path. Also, our not CONSENTING could encourage another to refrain as well. May we continue on the righteous path of God’s Will. We can be assured of where it leads.

Have a great day ACCEPTING THE YOKE OF CHRIST! ( Matthew 11:28-30)
Carl

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