How can we avoid "defiling" our relationship with God in daily life? Setting the Scene “Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” — 2 Corinthians 7:1 Paul writes this after reminding believers of God’s promise to dwell among us and be our Father (6:16-18). Because God lives with us, we guard that relationship from anything that would pollute it. What “Defilement” Looks Like • “Every defilement of body” – outward sins: sexual immorality (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5), substance abuse (Ephesians 5:18), violence, dishonesty in business. • “Every defilement of … spirit” – inward sins: pride (James 4:6), bitterness (Hebrews 12:15), envy (1 Peter 2:1), unbelief (Hebrews 3:12). • “Perfecting holiness” – an ongoing pursuit, not a one-time achievement (Philippians 3:12-14). • “In the fear of God” – healthy reverence, not paralyzing dread (Proverbs 9:10). Practical Ways to Keep Ourselves Unstained 1. Daily confession and repentance • 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…” • Treat sin quickly—like washing a cut before infection sets in. 2. Feed on Scripture, not pollution • Psalm 119:11: “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” • Replace media that celebrates sin with truth that renews the mind (Romans 12:2). 3. Guard your inputs and company • 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good character.” • Set boundaries on relationships, websites, music, and entertainment that tempt you. 4. Cultivate godly habits • Regular worship (Hebrews 10:25) • Serving others (Galatians 5:13) • Generous giving (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) • Memorizing Scripture (Joshua 1:8) 5. Walk in the Spirit • Galatians 5:16: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” • Invite the Spirit’s guidance in decisions, conversations, and temptations. Daily Self-Checks • Is my conscience clear before God and people? (Acts 24:16) • Would Jesus be comfortable watching, hearing, or doing this with me? • Is this drawing me closer to holiness or closer to compromise? • Am I hiding anything? Hidden sin is still defilement (Luke 8:17). Encouraging Promises to Keep Us Steady • God’s indwelling presence: John 14:23 • Power for purity: Titus 2:11-12 • Grace for every stumble: Romans 5:20 • Future hope motivating present holiness: 1 John 3:2-3 God’s invitation is not merely to avoid pollution but to enjoy an unclouded fellowship with Him. By cleansing ourselves daily and leaning on His Spirit, we keep that relationship vibrant, undefiled, and joy-filled. |
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