Proverbs 4:14-16 (ESV)
14 Do not enter the path of the wicked,
and do not walk in the way of the evil.
15 Avoid it; do not go on it;
turn away from it and pass on.
16 For they cannot sleep unless they have done wrong;
they are robbed of sleep unless they have made someone stumble.
The father implores the son to do whatever it takes to stay away from those who do evil. Six times in a row, he tells the son the same thing: “Do not enter,” “do not walk,” “avoid,” “do not go,” “turn away,” and “pass on” from the path of the wicked. Clearly, those who are wise stay as far away from evil as possible. We are to pass on or keep walking without straying off the way of righteousness. Those who do evil look forward to the darkness of night. Sin is so consuming that the wicked are entrapped by it can’t even sleep until they have done wrong. Only the fool thinks she can get close to darkness without being dimmed. As you journey along the course of righteousness, what tempts you to stop, look, and linger? Identify your weaknesses and determine to avoid anything that could lead you off track today.