By“[21] Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.” — James 1:21 NIV
Becoming a believer doesn’t mean all moral filth in you is cleansed in your life. If anyone told you that, it’s a lie. Haven’t you seen some believers lying before? There are even instances where some ministers have been caught in infidelity. So, never think evil isn’t close to you. It is, even though it’s not in your spirit because Christ lives there.
As soon as a person accepts Christ, God ushers him into His transformative process. That is where He purges him (all His children inclusive) of all moral filth by constant discipleship with the teachings of Christ.
Even when Jesus chose the twelve disciples, He knew they had moral filth. He saw them arguing and challenging one another. He knew Judas Iscariot had been stealing money from the ministry’s treasury (see John 12:6). He knew each person’s heart. Yet, He was able to manage them together as a team and teach them His ways till they got to the point that He knew they were clean (see John 15:3).
Maybe you grew up in a home where insult and backbiting was the norm. And you’ve grown with that attitude. When you encounter Christ, it doesn’t mean that attitude will vanish overnight. No! As you keep submitting to Him, He’ll help you get rid of all moral filth in you, most times without your notice.
God is so good that He doesn’t allow you to focus on your faults when He’s transforming you. That’s why there’s now no condemnation to those who’re in Christ (Romans 8:1). So when you read James 1:21, and you see “… get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent …” don’t attribute it to a self-work you have to use your strength to do. No! Let your eyes be on the following statement in that verse, which says, “… humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.” Other versions translate the last “you” as “your soul.”
Your soul needs purification. But it’s the reception of the Word that will do that. And when your soul is purified, it’ll reflect in your physical way of life. Therefore, don’t skip church, your reading of the Word and your prayer routines. These are the key spiritual disciplines that will help you get God’s Word implanted in your life.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, give me to live according to Your dictates. Cleanse my soul from all moral filth. In the name of Jesus. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2024 – 020
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