In what ways can we guard against spiritual adultery today? Setting the Scene “‘…wearing belts on their waists and flowing turbans on their heads; all of them looked like officers, the images of the Babylonians in Chaldea, the land of their birth.’” (Ezekiel 23:15) Israel lusted after these impressive warriors and their gods, breaking covenant with the LORD. The same heart danger lurks today—anything that steals the devotion that belongs to Him alone. What Spiritual Adultery Looks Like Today • Elevating career, relationships, entertainment, or politics above obedience to Christ (Matthew 6:24). • Blending biblical convictions with popular ideologies until truth is compromised (Galatians 1:10). • Trusting money, technology, or self more than God’s providence (Jeremiah 17:5). • Secret sin—pornography, bitterness, greed—kept hidden yet competing for the heart (James 4:4). Guardrail #1 – Immerse in Scripture Daily “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11) • Schedule non-negotiable time in the Word every day. • Memorize verses addressing your particular temptations. • Let Scripture, not feelings, set your priorities (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Guardrail #2 – Cultivate an Exclusive Love for God “Love the LORD your God with all your heart…” (Deuteronomy 6:5) • Begin and end the day affirming His rightful place on the throne of your life. • Keep a gratitude list; thanksgiving stirs affection for Him and exposes idols. • Fast periodically from social media, entertainment, or other pleasures to remind your soul Who satisfies (Psalm 63:5). Guardrail #3 – Flee, Don’t Flirt “Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” (1 Corinthians 10:14) • Identify environments, apps, or friendships that trigger compromise—and create distance. • Replace the void with Christ-honoring alternatives: worship playlists, edifying books, serving opportunities. • Remember Joseph’s pattern: he ran, leaving his cloak behind (Genesis 39:12). Guardrail #4 – Guard the Gateways “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23) • Eyes: filter movies, shows, websites; set screen-time limits. • Ears: be selective with music, podcasts, conversations. • Mind: practice Philippians 4:8 thinking—true, noble, right, pure. Guardrail #5 – Walk in Honest Community “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together…” (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Join a small group where confession and encouragement are normal. • Invite one trusted friend to ask direct questions about your walk. • Serve side-by-side; shared mission keeps focus on God, not self. Guardrail #6 – Keep Covenant Reminders Central “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:26) • Regularly participate in Communion; recall the price of your redemption. • Celebrate baptisms; they testify that you belong exclusively to Christ (Romans 6:4). • Mark spiritual anniversaries—salvation, answered prayers—to rehearse His faithfulness. Guardrail #7 – Trust the Jealous Love of God “You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God.” (Exodus 20:5) • His jealousy is holy protection, not insecurity; He guards what He owns. • When conviction comes, respond quickly—repent, receive cleansing (1 John 1:9). • Rest in His keeping power: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” (Philippians 1:6) Living Faithfully in a Faithless Age Ezekiel’s warning is a mirror for modern hearts. By saturating ourselves in Scripture, treasuring God above all, fleeing every rival, and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow believers, we guard against spiritual adultery and enjoy the freedom of undivided devotion to the One who first loved us. |
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