The concept of "clinging to good" is deeply rooted in biblical teachings and is a fundamental aspect of Christian ethics and morality. This principle is primarily derived from the Apostle Paul's exhortation in the New Testament, where he instructs believers to adhere steadfastly to what is good and righteous.

Biblical Foundation

The phrase "cling to what is good" is found in Romans 12:9, where Paul writes, "Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good" . This verse is part of a larger passage that outlines the marks of a true Christian, emphasizing love, humility, and moral integrity. The call to cling to good is a directive to hold fast to virtuous and godly behavior, rejecting evil in all its forms.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament also underscores the importance of choosing good over evil. In Deuteronomy 30:19, Moses presents the Israelites with a choice between life and death, blessing and curse, urging them to "choose life" by loving and obeying God. This choice inherently involves clinging to what is good, as defined by God's commandments and statutes.

The Psalms frequently contrast the righteous, who cling to God's ways, with the wicked, who pursue evil. Psalm 34:14 advises, "Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it" . This verse highlights the active pursuit of good as a hallmark of a life devoted to God.

New Testament Teachings

In addition to Romans 12:9, the New Testament contains numerous exhortations to adhere to goodness. In 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, Paul instructs, "Test all things. Hold fast to what is good. Abstain from every form of evil" . This passage emphasizes discernment and the conscious decision to embrace good while rejecting evil.

The Apostle Peter also encourages believers to live righteously, stating in 1 Peter 3:11, "He must turn away from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it" . This echoes the Old Testament call to pursue goodness as an active and ongoing endeavor.

Practical Application

Clinging to good involves both an internal disposition and external actions. It requires a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit, resulting in a life that reflects God's character. This transformation is evident in the fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Believers are called to demonstrate goodness in their relationships, work, and community involvement. This includes acts of kindness, justice, and mercy, as well as a commitment to truth and integrity. The pursuit of good is not passive but requires intentionality and perseverance, often in the face of opposition or temptation.

Theological Implications

The call to cling to good is rooted in the nature of God, who is the ultimate standard of goodness. As Jesus declared in Mark 10:18, "No one is good except God alone" . Therefore, clinging to good is an expression of aligning oneself with God's will and character.

This principle also reflects the transformative power of the Gospel, which enables believers to overcome evil with good, as stated in Romans 12:21: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" . Through the redemptive work of Christ, Christians are empowered to live lives that reflect God's goodness and bring glory to His name.