Are you reading the Bible through with me? Grab your pen and journal, and get ready to write your thoughts as you journey through the Bible.
Today, read Numbers 31-33. In chapter 31, you find Yahweh telling Moses to get Israel ready to go to war with the Midianites.
Verse 16 reminds us that it was the false prophet, Balaam, who had advised the Midianites to use their women to incite Israelite men to sexual sin and the worship of their idols. Their destruction was God's judgment for their deception and idolatry. They knew better, but sinned anyway and God was forced to destroy them, including Balaam, the manipulator.
Then in chapter 33:50-56, Yahweh instructs the Israelites to drive out ALL of the inhabitants of the Promised Land and destroy ALL of their idols and places of worship. God gave clear warning that this was to be done. But why did He say this? Because to leave even one would be a tempting invitation to forsake Yahweh God.
This is also a clear warning to us.
When we yield ourselves to the Lord Jesus, it is imperative that we become ruthless in removing those things and persons that would rival our affection for and submission to the Lord Jesus. It might mean we have to stop going to places that we used to frequent. It might mean making a change in close friendships if they are toxic to God’s way. It might mean making a lifestyle change that now brings honor to God instead of pleasure to ourselves.
Why do we need to rid ourselves of those things? Because those things, activities, and relationships will be tempting invitations to dishonor the Lord. Are you allowing things and/or people in your life to rival your love for and commitment to the Lord Jesus? Perhaps it is time to "drive out the enemies."
PRAY: Father, You are a jealous God who desires whole-hearted submission from Your children. Forgive me for allowing things or people to rival my affection for You. I want to be fully surrendered to You alone. Reveal to me anything in my life that needs to be confessed as an idol and strengthen my resolve to put it away so that my whole heart might be Yours.
