How does Zechariah 5:9 encourage us to pursue righteousness and holiness daily? Setting the scene in Zechariah 5 Zechariah is shown an ephah (large basket) with a woman—“Wickedness”—sealed inside (vv. 5-8). God is exposing and containing sin before removing it from His covenant people. Zechariah 5:9 – Wickedness Carried Away “Then I lifted up my eyes and saw two women appearing with the wind in their wings. They had wings like those of a stork, and they lifted up the basket between earth and heaven.” • The winged figures act as divine agents, sweeping sin out of Judah’s midst. • Their stork-like wings—unclean to Israel (Leviticus 11:19)—underline that even what was once unclean now serves God’s purpose of cleansing His people. • The basket is suspended “between earth and heaven,” showing sin’s removal from daily life and God’s holy presence. How the vision motivates daily righteousness • God does not tolerate lingering wickedness; He isolates and expels it—prompting us to examine and forsake sin daily. • The dramatic, visible purge reminds us that hidden sin will eventually be exposed (Luke 8:17). • Seeing God take the initiative encourages us to cooperate, not resist, His sanctifying work (Philippians 2:12-13). • The upward movement of the basket points to our calling to “set [our] minds on things above” (Colossians 3:2) and leave earthly corruption behind. Putting holiness into practice today • Invite the Spirit’s searchlight: confess and repent the moment sin is uncovered (1 John 1:9). • Keep short accounts—daily Bible reading and reflection reveal attitudes that need removal (Psalm 139:23-24). • Replace what is purged: fill the empty “basket” with obedience, worship, and service (Romans 12:1-2). • Walk in community; accountability helps carry away persistent sins (Hebrews 3:13). • Celebrate victories—remember that every act of cleansing is evidence of God’s covenant faithfulness (Lamentations 3:22-23). Further biblical reinforcement • “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 • “But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” 1 Peter 1:15 • “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” Ephesians 5:8 • “Who may ascend the hill of the LORD?… He who has clean hands and a pure heart.” Psalm 24:3-4 |
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