Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Day 16 Pure
The world looks at the church today has full of people who are hypocritical. Why? Have we forgotten integrity? Have we become like the world? We need to be people of integrity, this is what will draw people to the Lord. The world is watching whether we like it or not. We are held up to a standard. The non-believer knows how a Christian should act. we are under a microscope. People of integrity don't just do the right thing when others are looking, they do it when they are alone. Some of the hardest times to be a person of integrity is when I am alone. The enemy tries to convince that it hurts no one else but that is so untrue. My level of integrity strengthens when I listen to the Holy Spirit alone. I can be no different than when I am alone or when I am in public. God wants me to have a pure heart at all times. I am so glad that He is there at all times. Let's take this by storm by being people of integrity.
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Day 16 – Pure
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OUCH!!! You would think that the author of that scripture was standing on any street corner in America today!
Purity starts in the heart. It seeks pleasing God above all else… above pleasing self or pleasing others. It “cleans” the heart, the mind, the mouth, and the actions of those who are seeking after it. It creates people of integrity!
Does it indicate perfection? Oh, no… not possible! It is an on-going process that continually renews and changes. We have to keep our hearts open to God for evaluation and change, so that we are able to remain pure.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-34
Surrounding yourself with people who will hold you accountable is another great tool that will help you get, and stay, pure. Choose people who know you... who understand what makes you tick... and are bold enough to confront you when it appears that you are not making wise or godly choices with your life. They should be people who know your strengths and your weaknesses.
There are many people who attempt to appear pure, but their hearts are wicked and selfish. The scripture says, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.” Matthew 15:8-9
You can often measure what is in your heart by asking yourself some simple questions: What is my ultimate purpose in this life?? Is it to set myself up for a plush retirement? Is it to live comfortably? It is to attain the best position in my field? Having great aspirations are not necessarily a bad thing, but if these are your primary or only aspirations – you may need a heart transplant (God-style!). NJ