purity – Be Still…

Jeremiah 6:16-30 – Path of Destruction

Jeremiah’s message from God in this reading continues to give clues for what is about to happen. It seems there are several dialogues going on. Likewise, there are multiple messages, one of which might be exactly what you need to hear today.

Let’s start with God’s command in verse 16, “Stop right where you are!” If this was God speaking to you, what would he see in your behavior? Are you walking in God’s ways or cutting your own road into new territory? Why do we always try to “recreate the wheel?” Why don’t we trust God more?

1 Samuel 16:1-13 – God Looks At The Heart

Read 1 Samuel 16:1-13

I love the story of David’s anointing. There is so much going on in these few short verses. As you read through, take time to imagine the reality of the situation that unfolds. We can envision all sorts of emotions even if they aren’t mentioned directly.

Samuel was fearful of Saul’s reaction to this mission for God. Rather than keep his weakness to himself, he told God, and God gave him a solution. His visit would be cloaked to look like a mission of cleansing and sacrifice. Brilliant!

Deuteronomy 22:13-30 – Parental Guidance Suggested

Read Deuteronomy 22:13-30

Sexual purity is the topic today. I’ll never forget my “birds and the bees” discussion with my mother. Awkward to be sure! It was no easier having the “talk” with my own daughter. There was a common thread in both, to “save yourself for marriage.” Now, I understand it was a Biblical thing that God ordained for his people. Although today’s reading suggests it was serious business.

Again, I am in awe of our God who is so thorough in his protection. He truly cares for us and wants the best for us. I would have to say that in this day and age, it is harder and harder for young girls to stay pure until their wedding day. And, when virginity is lost, it is not a life or death situation, at least in the culture I was raised in. There was disapproval, and girls had a “bad reputation” when they were promiscuous outside of marriage, but death did not result.

Matthew 15:1-20 – From the Inside Out

Read Matthew 15:1-20

You Are What You Say is a book by a Harvard doctor who has a program focused on transforming stress through the power of language. Jesus would say that what comes out of our mouths is more important than what goes in. This whole discussion came about when the Pharisees questioned the disciples’ possible defilement by not washing their hands before they ate.

You have probably been reminded a time or two in your lifetime to wash up before dinner. I can remember that was just something we did after playing outside coming into contact with who knows what germs. As a child, I never knew it was a tradition or ceremony from the Bible. Jesus clears it up. It won’t make us unclean on the inside to eat with dirty hands. Germs may be “unclean,” but they are not going to cause us to sin and spread evil in our hearts.