A bad example

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"If a fire gets out of control and goes into another person's field, destroying the sheaves or the standing grain—then the one who started the fire must surely make restitution for the lost crops." Exodus 22:6

But what restitution can he make who casts abroad the fire-brands of error, or the coals of lust—and sets men's souls on a blaze with the fire of hell? The guilt is beyond estimate—and the result is irretrievable.

If such an offender is forgiven, what grief it will cause him in the retrospect, since he cannot undo the great harm which he has done!

A bad example may kindle a sinful flame—which years of regret cannot quench. To burn a man's house is bad enough—but how much worse to damn his soul! 

It may be useful to us to reflect how far we may have been guilty in the past, and to inquire whether, even in the present, there may not be any evil in us—which has a tendency to bring damage to the souls of our relatives, friends, or neighbours!