It seems there are many people following the crowd these days. I think it’s called “group think” now, but it’s really the same thing: mob mentality. We see and hear of it on social media. We see it in the news with people rioting and destroying property, and in some cases, we see and hear the news media opining rather that reporting facts.
What happens when people don’t look for the truth, have the strength of convictions or discernment and just start goose-stepping behind the latest bandwagon. Here’s a short list from history and some from current events.
– People didn’t listen to Noah and they all drowned in a worldwide flood.
– People ignored God’s promise and an entire generation spent forty years wandering in the desert until they all died without ever entering Canaan.
– People decided to practice the values of other nations (pagan practices including child sacrifice) and ended up being invaded by enemies they thought were friends and being taken into exile as slaves.
– Careers and lives have been destroyed and true history often sacrificed by “sensitivity” editors. I have friends whose books were cancelled because they were based on real history and not revised politically correct history.
– A few “expert” voices thought it was a good idea to convince an entire nation that shutting down “non-essential” (small) businesses, schools and churches (while leaving big-box stores open). Those who resisted were labeled radicals and prosecuted or fined while political leaders ignored rules of “social distancing,” and dined with friends in luxury restaurants and at private parties, having learned how easy it is to fan the fears of a mob and control a populace with a government mandate.
– Many young people now build their lives on “likes” rather than character and are victims of or take part in attacking others without cause.
In summary, the consequences of following the crowd are risking death, missing out on the best God has for you, destruction of your nation, loss of freedom, taking part in the persecution and death of millions (Hitler’s Germany as an examples). It shows a complete disregard for reason and human rights. It ignores God’s command to love your neighbor as you love yourself. Following the crowd encourages you to give in to the worst side of yourself.
There is a way to make your life and the world better. Trust in the Lord who made you. Lean not on your own understanding. Read the Bible which is packed with history and life-giving and life-saving lessons. Acknowledge and give reverence to God in all your ways, and He will make your path straight through whatever circumstances you face.