Evil Ruin

(Proverbs 5:14 KJV)  I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly.

What is the result of not listening?  The word here is “ruin” (7451b).  In context this comes after a period of refusing to listen.  When we look at the declining moral atmosphere of our country and world we often blame the leaders.  I know that if you get me going I point out the failure of the modern church to stand up and be counted.  It isn’t always because the word is not being preached.  The pew shares the blame with the pulpit.

In my youth I attended a church with some of the best preaching I have ever heard.  I benefited from it, but what has always amazed me is the number of people who came week after week and today it seems like they did not hear a word that was said.  How can you sit at the feet of a great preacher and continue to conform to your culture instead of to your Lord?

So?  If the word is not being preached, be critical.  If you are not listening, it doesn’t really matter how much good stuff is thrown at you.  If you heart is listening the sermon can touch you no matter how boring it is.