Purify Yourself

“Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.” II Corinthians 7:1 (NIV)

In Shakespeare’s play Macbeth, a murderer keeps trying to remove the blood (guilt) from his hands by repeated washings. Pilate washed his hands in front of the Jews and announced he was then “innocent” of Jesus’ blood. (See Matthew 27:24.) In the Old Testament, there were ceremonial purifications by washing with water, as well as purifying by fire. (See Numbers 8:7 and 31:19-20.)

You can purify yourself SPIRITUALLY by simply choosing to obey the truth. (See I Peter 1:22.) It is YOUR CHOICE! God has given you His promises so that you might participate in the “divine nature.”

NOW give all diligence “and make every effort to ADD to your faith” GOOD FRUITS (II Peter 1:3-8).

What are these good fruits? “…goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love.” Salvation is only the BEGINNING. NOW grow in holiness. PURIFY YOURSELF by choosing to put away sin and follow the truth of God’s Word unto holiness. Let the WATER of His Word and the FIRE of His Spirit bring about your SPIRITUAL purification.

PRAY: “Loving Father, my heart’s desire is to please You. Today, I choose to turn from every evil thought and activity and walk in the cleansing power of Your Word. Purify my heart. In Jesus Name, amen.”