-October 17, 2023-
Good morning beloved, happy Tuesday,
“Abstain from every form of evil.”
(1 Thessalonians 5:22).
This world is chock full of evil; it is all around us and it appeals to our flesh. Some things are obviously bad, others are more subtle. The latter things may appear good or harmless but have negative affects on us and others. Anything that does not glorify the Lord and pushes away from Him is not good for us. If something is questionable or doubtful, we should avoid it, abstain from it, and not be involved in it.
The word abstain is defined as, “restrain oneself from doing or enjoying something.” As believers we must be on guard and watchful moment by moment. Paul wrote in Romans 12:9, “Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.” We should have a holy hatred of every form of evil.
The Scriptures teach us to be separated from the world and set apart for the Lord. 1 Corinthians 6:17 says, “Therefore ‘Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.” In the OT certain animals, foods, and things were clearly unclean. It was spelled out for them. In the NT, however, while there are certain things mentioned, there are also principles that we must apply to our lives.
To abstain from every form of evil is a daily requirement. The King James Version says, “Abstain from the appearance of evil.” There are places, people, and pursuits that should be shunned. For example walking into a liquor store, even to buy something innocent like snack foods is wrong because it could give the wrong impression and stumble a fellow believer.
Abstaining from every form of evil requires self-control, discernment, and commitment. The Holy Spirit who dwells within us will convict us and give no peace. We should put on the brakes, make a U-turn, and drive away. Paul told Timothy, “But you, O man of God, flee these things, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness” (1 Timothy 6:11). John Flavel said, “It is easier to cry against one thousand sins of others than to kill one of your own.”
Have a blessed day being on guard from every form of evil. Stay safe and healthy.
Being on guard against every form of evil, and abstaining from them,
Dean
Dean Allen's Daily Devotional 