A Spectacle Of Glory #268

Read: Colossians 3:5-9

Enjoying a bit of junk food now and then in moderation is no sin. A little salty snack, a piece of chocolate, or the occasional Frappuccino won’t do us lasting physical harm. But it isn’t the same when you’re talking about the spiritual life. There is no “moderation” when it comes to allowing “junk” thoughts or impure feelings or actions. In other words, God doesn’t want us to tackle sin in moderation or by half measures. In today’s Scripture reading, Paul writes, “Now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” Notice the word all. That means we must refuse to allow such things even the smallest foothold in our lives. It’s really about seeking to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.^a When it comes to loving God and others, we don’t do it in moderation. It’s all or nothing.

Father, I so easily lose sight of Your holiness. I tell myself a few sinful thoughts won’t hurt me. And yet I know very well how playing around with these sins gives them a foothold in my soul. With Your help, I refuse to allow room for thoughts and words that hurt my walk with You and grieve Your Spirit.