May 24 Live Pure

Ephesians 5:3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints.
 
PAUL continues on the theme of imitating God. In one sentence, Paul reminds us of the Ten Commandments.
    Certainly, “You shall not commit adultery.” And “You shall not covet.” are the two commands to which he specifically refers. The other eight we can summarize with the phrase “all impurity”. Anything that does not imitate God is impure, isn’t it? Worshiping other gods, making idols, speaking the Lord’s name in vain, neglecting the Sabbath, dishonoring parents, killing, stealing and lying certainly are impure aren’t they?
    When we talk of the Ten Commandments, we often say the that the first four point us to our relationship with God. Then the last six point us to our relationship with each other – love God; love one another. But let’s remember that the final six commands are also about our relationship with God.
    What happens when someone sins against your child or sibling or parent? You, too, experience the sin in some way, don’t you? You do, if you love that person in your family. What happens, then, if you act with impurity against the “saints” – all the people in Jesus’ church? You are impure against your Lord, aren’t you? You dishonor God as you sin against his creation and especially his church.
    Remember, Jesus gave his life for the church. As you say, “I belong to Jesus’ church.” you are to honor his own. Imitate God with pure thoughts and actions with all people. Obey his commandments. They are the core of true righteousness.
 
Prayer: Lord God, forgive me for my sins against your church. Strengthen my love for you and for others to imitate your righteousness. In Jesus’ name, amen.