I remember reading Proverbs 24:1 one quiet morning:

“Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.”

At first glance, it seemed like a simple instruction. But as I sat with it longer, the depth of wisdom in those few words became clearer. It’s a gentle yet firm warning from God—a call to examine our hearts and what we truly value.

In the original Hebrew, the phrase “evil men” is “anshei ra”—men of evil, those who walk in wickedness and opposition to God’s ways. These aren’t always the villains we imagine. Sometimes, they appear successful, powerful, influential—even admirable. But behind their wealth or popularity is often a life built on deceit, pride, manipulation, or rebellion against God.

The temptation to envy such people is real. Maybe you’ve seen someone rise quickly—making money through dishonest means, living a flashy lifestyle, or gaining followers by promoting things that clearly contradict God’s truth. And sometimes, in our moments of weakness, we might wonder, “Am I missing out?”

But Scripture always brings us back to reality.

“Fret not thyself because of evildoers… for they shall soon be cut down like the grass…”
— Psalm 37:1–2

God reminds us that what we see on the surface doesn’t reflect the true end. The wicked may prosper for a time, but their foundation is unstable, and their peace is counterfeit.

The Bible goes even further. It warns that evil company can corrupt good character (1 Corinthians 15:33). That means it’s not just about admiring the wicked from a distance—desiring their ways or walking closely with them can slowly pull you into the same pit.

“A companion of fools shall be destroyed.” — Proverbs 13:20

I’ve seen it happen. A person starts justifying small compromises. They spend more time with people who live carelessly, ignoring God’s voice. Over time, convictions dull, the heart hardens, and sin no longer feels serious. Before they know it, they’ve traded eternal joy for temporary gain.

But there’s a better way.

God doesn’t just tell us what to avoid—He invites us into something far greater.

“Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.”
— Psalm 37:37

If you’re going to look up to anyone, let it be someone filled with the Spirit—someone who walks in love, truth, humility, and purpose. Not someone who shines in the world’s eyes, but someone whose heart reflects Christ.

“To be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”
— Romans 8:6

The more you cling to those who walk in darkness, the more it will affect you. But when you walk with the wise, with those who pursue God, your own steps grow stronger and more steady. Choose to walk with people who remind you of Jesus, not distract you from Him.

Prayer

Dear Lord, help me to guard my heart against envy. Teach me to see through the glitter of the world and not be drawn to what opposes You. When I’m tempted to desire the path of the wicked, remind me of their end—and of Your better way.
Help me walk in the Spirit, not the flesh. Surround me with godly influences, and give me the strength to walk away from anything or anyone pulling me from You. I want to desire what You desire.
Make me wise, humble, and set apart for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Related scriptures:

• Proverbs 24:1

• Psalm 1:1-3

• Romans 8:1

• Colossians 3:2

• James 4:4

As you go about your day, remember: Don’t measure your life by the standards of the world. Measure it by the Word of God. If you must desire to be like someone, let it be a child of God who walks in the Spirit and reflects His glory.