Daily Manna

Key Verse

“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1).

TEXT — 2 Corinthians 7:1-7

Message

Quite often, many of us assume that it is up to God to ensure that we are holy or not. We are quick to point to the promises of God that He is the One that circumcises our heart. We act as if He stands to gain something personally when we are holy; and we neglect the role the Lord has ascribed to us if we desire to live in holiness and perfection.

Apostle Paul, in this intimate and personal letter to the Corinthian believers, conveyed so much love and affection for them. Still, he did not leave them in the dark concerning the demands of God on them. The Apostle stressed that to enjoy God’s great and precious promises to us, believers must shun all personal conducts that defile and deeds that corrupt the spirit, such as indulging in idolatry.

This is the way to ensure that they were uncorrupted by the lifestyle and widespread acts of immorality, greed and avarice in their society. He made the point that as a servant of God, he would neither corrupt nor defraud anyone. Using his personal testimony, Paul implied that keeping away consciously from all evil acts would enable them lead faithful and fruitful lives. Paul told them he was comforted greatly by God when Titus brought news of their earnest desires, mourning and fervency.

It is our personal responsibility to keep away from all outward and inner spiritual dirt, to show that we have experienced the mercy and grace of God. If we are to do this, we must turn away from all known sins, follow Christ wholeheartedly, live by the holy standards of God and avoid dabbling into the worldly practices of the ungodly around us.

Thought for the day

Keeping pure and holy is our personal duty

• Bible
• in one year
• 1 KINGS 1 – 2