Read Leviticus 14:1 through 15:33
“You must keep the Israelites separate from things that make them unclean, so they will not die in their uncleanness for defiling my dwelling place, which is among them” (Leviticus 15:31).
Do you know anyone who would shower and dress for work, then leave home without brushing his or her teeth? That person would look clean, but foulness would emanate from within.
God showed the Israelites that even though an infection, mildew, or bodily discharge appeared to be gone, there was a need for inner, spiritual cleansing to restore the relationship between that person and God. The ceremonial cleansing and offerings that God required foretold of Jesus’ sacrifice that would be the final, eternal spiritual cleansing for all who would receive Him as Lord and Savior.
Once saved, however, we need to be aware of temptations and depend on the Holy Spirit to help us turn from them. When we fail to obey and defile the Holy Spirit’s dwelling place, we must admit that failure to God. Then we can experience His forgiveness and cleansing of our hearts again.
CHALLENGE FOR TODAY:
Be watchful to stay away from those things that will defile the heart.
©by Gospel Publishing House, 1445 N Boonville Ave., Springfield, Missouri 65802