Topical Bible: Diligence: Required by God in Guarding Against Defilement

◄ Diligence: Required by God in Guarding Against Defilement ►

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Diligence, as a biblical principle, is a steadfast and earnest effort to accomplish what is undertaken. In the context of guarding against defilement, diligence is a requisite virtue for believers, as it reflects a commitment to holiness and purity in accordance with God's commands.

Biblical Foundation

The call to diligence in guarding against defilement is rooted in the holiness of God and His desire for His people to reflect His character. In Leviticus 11:44, God commands, "For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, because I am holy." This call to holiness necessitates a diligent effort to avoid spiritual and moral defilement.

Guarding the Heart

Proverbs 4:23 emphasizes the importance of diligence in guarding one's heart: "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life." The heart, in biblical terms, is the center of one's being, encompassing thoughts, emotions, and will. Diligence in guarding the heart involves a vigilant watch over what influences one's inner life, ensuring that it remains pure and aligned with God's truth.

Avoiding Worldly Defilement

The New Testament further underscores the need for diligence in avoiding defilement from worldly influences. James 1:27 states, "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." This verse highlights the dual responsibility of active service and personal purity, both requiring diligent effort.

Spiritual Warfare

Ephesians 6:11-12 calls believers to "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Diligence in spiritual warfare involves a proactive stance in equipping oneself with God's armor to resist defilement and maintain spiritual integrity.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

While diligence is a human responsibility, it is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16 instructs, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." The Holy Spirit aids believers in their diligent efforts to guard against defilement, providing strength and guidance to live a life pleasing to God.

Practical Application

Diligence in guarding against defilement involves several practical steps:

1. Regular Scripture Study: Immersing oneself in God's Word provides the knowledge and discernment needed to recognize and avoid defilement. Psalm 119:11 declares, "I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You."

2. Prayerful Vigilance: Maintaining a consistent prayer life helps believers remain alert to spiritual dangers and seek God's protection and wisdom. Jesus instructed His disciples in Matthew 26:41, "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

3. Community Accountability: Engaging with a community of believers offers support and accountability in the pursuit of holiness. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Diligence in guarding against defilement is a vital aspect of the Christian life, reflecting a commitment to live in a manner worthy of the calling received from God. Through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit and the support of the Christian community, believers are equipped to maintain purity and holiness in a world that often seeks to defile.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Hebrews 12:15
Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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... as the objects of worship, and required that their ... be applied to God; or as when
diligence is manifested ... admit, but thankfully to assert, that God is jealous ...
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