How can we apply the principle of separation in our daily spiritual lives? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 46:20: “Then he said to me, ‘This is the place where the priests will boil the guilt offering and the sin offering and bake the grain offering, so that they do not bring them into the outer court and thereby consecrate the people.’” God provided an inner room so the priests could handle holy offerings without spilling their consecrating power into common space. The picture: holiness preserved by clear boundaries. Why Separation Still Matters - God’s holiness is eternal (Leviticus 11:44; 1 Peter 1:15-16). - He calls His people to live distinct lives (2 Corinthians 6:17; Romans 12:1-2). - Separation is dedication to God, not isolation from people (John 17:15-17). Lessons Drawn from Ezekiel 46:20 1. Boundaries protect what is holy—priests had designated space; we guard heart and mind (Proverbs 4:23). 2. Proximity shapes influence—when holy blurs with common, harm results (1 Corinthians 15:33). 3. Purpose over legalism—separation aims at true worship and blessing (Micah 6:8). Practical Ways to Live Separated Each Day • Carve out “inner-court” time—daily Scripture and prayer slots kept inviolate (Mark 1:35). • Filter input— – Media that is pure, noble, praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). – Speech free from gossip or crudity (Ephesians 4:29). • Shape relationships— – Close fellowship with believers who sharpen you (Proverbs 27:17). – Gracious friendship with unbelievers without adopting their values (Psalm 1:1-2). • Capture thoughts—bring every idea captive to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). • Purify spaces—remove items or habits that fuel temptation (Joshua 24:15). • Commit to corporate worship—shared holiness strengthens individual holiness (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Serve from clean hands—confess quickly so ministry flows from purity (1 John 1:9; 2 Timothy 2:21). Separation and Mission Together - Salt and light must stay distinct to work (Matthew 5:13-16). - Jesus dined with sinners yet remained sinless (Luke 15:1-2). - Engage culture to redeem, not conform (Titus 2:11-14). Encouragement to Persevere - The God who calls also keeps (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24). - Holiness brings joy and usefulness (Nehemiah 8:10; John 15:11). - Temporary boundaries will yield to eternal, unhindered fellowship (Revelation 21:3-4). |
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