What modern "inhabitants" must we "drive out" to maintain spiritual purity? The Original Command: Numbers 33:55 “‘But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land before you, those you allow to remain will become barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides. They will harass you in the land where you settle.’” Principle for Today: Spiritual Purity Requires Separation The command to Israel was literal; God meant every Canaanite had to go. The spiritual parallel is just as absolute: whatever opposes God in our lives must be expelled, not accommodated (2 Corinthians 6:14-18; James 4:4). Spotting the Modern Inhabitants Below are common “residents” that creep into the believer’s heart, each one ready to pierce like a thorn if left unchecked. • Sexual immorality in any form—pornography, adultery, cohabitation (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). • Idolatry of success, possessions, or celebrity culture—anything exalted above God (1 John 2:15-17). • Compromising entertainment—music, shows, and games that glamorize sin (Ephesians 5:11-12). • Addictions—substances, gambling, or digital obsessions that enslave (1 Corinthians 6:12). • False teaching and relativistic philosophies that deny biblical authority (Colossians 2:8). • Bitterness and unforgiveness—silent killers of fellowship (Ephesians 4:31-32). • Pride and self-exaltation—subtle yet deadly (Proverbs 16:18; 1 Peter 5:5). • Love of money—greed that drives compromise (1 Timothy 6:10). • Fear and anxiety that dethrone God’s peace (Philippians 4:6-7). Practical Steps to Expel Unholy Influences • Identify the foothold: name the sin or influence honestly in the light of Scripture (Psalm 139:23-24). • Repent immediately: agree with God and turn away, however painful (Acts 3:19). • Remove access points: delete apps, end toxic relationships, dump hidden stashes—no half-measures (Matthew 5:29-30). • Replace with truth: fill the vacated space with God’s Word, worship, and Christ-centered fellowship (Colossians 3:16). • Guard the borders: set clear boundaries and accountability before temptation resurfaces (Proverbs 4:23). • Rely on the Spirit: victory is by His power, not mere resolve (Galatians 5:16). The Promise of a Cleansed Land When the “inhabitants” are driven out, God’s presence enjoys ungrieved fellowship with His people (2 Corinthians 7:1). Purity is not loss but gain—freedom, joy, and a life that overflows with His blessing. |
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