How can we apply Leviticus 6:11's principles to our personal spiritual practices? Opening the text “Then he is to take off his garments and put on other garments, and carry the ashes outside the camp to a clean place.” – Leviticus 6:11 The picture at the altar • The priest removes yesterday’s ashes—evidence that a sacrifice was accepted. • He changes clothes before handling what is unclean. • The ashes are taken “to a clean place,” outside the camp, keeping the tabernacle area free from defilement. What the ashes represent for us • Residue of past sin that has already been forgiven. • Lingering habits, memories, or attitudes that smolder if left unattended. • Anything that would clutter the altar of our heart and dampen our devotion. Changing garments: intentional holiness • Just as the priest put on fresh clothes, we “put off the old self” and “put on the new self” (Ephesians 4:22-24). • Daily repentance means choosing thoughts, words, and actions that match our new identity in Christ. • Fresh “garments” guard us from becoming casual about sins we’ve already confessed. Carrying the ashes outside: decisive removal • Ashes were not left beside the altar; they were carried away. • Practical steps: – Delete stored-up bitterness or offense (Ephesians 4:31). – Break with media, relationships, or habits that reignite old fires (Romans 13:14). – Schedule regular times to review the day with God, confess, and clear the rubbish (1 John 1:9). • Hebrews 13:11-13 reminds us that Jesus bore our uncleanness “outside the camp,” so we gladly distance ourselves from anything that mocks His sacrifice. Keeping the flame clear and bright • Fresh fire needs a clean grate. Removing ashes makes room for new fuel. • Set patterns that keep your devotion flame alive: daily Scripture intake, worship, fellowship, service (Acts 2:42-47). • Ask with David, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). Simple habits that live out Leviticus 6:11 • Morning check-in: invite the Spirit to spotlight yesterday’s ashes before the day begins. • Mid-week purge: audit digital feeds, calendars, and conversations—clear what dims your zeal. • Communion mindset: every Lord’s Table is a fresh reminder to carry away anything unworthy of the cross (1 Corinthians 11:28). • Accountability friendships: trusted believers can gently ask, “Any ashes piling up?” (Galatians 6:1-2). Encouragement for the journey • God never exposes ashes to shame us but to free us. • The altar stays ready for new offerings when the residue is gone. • Regular, intentional “ash removal” keeps our worship sincere, our witness clear, and our hearts joyous. |
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