Monday, December 14, 2020

Keeping Yourself Unspotted From the World

“Pure and undefiled religion before God 
and the Father is this: to visit orphans 
and widows in their trouble, and to keep 
oneself unspotted from the world.”  
(James 1:27 NKJV)

    When we purify our heart and continue to purify it, our actions will reflect that purity. As we set our mind on things above instead of on things of the earth, even this will be revealed through the choices we make.

“Even a child is known by his deeds, 
whether what he does is pure and right.” 
(Proverbs 20:9 NKJV)

    Jesus taught that they who meet the needs of those in need are the blessed of His Father and when He comes to gather His own they will be welcomed into the kingdom prepared for them (Matthew 25:31-46). Does this remind you of one of the beatitudes we have studied? “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8)

    One of the purest ways to feel purpose and fulfillment in this life is to help others who need our help. In Jesus’ time these helps did not exist except by the hands of caring individuals who looked with loving eyes and generous hearts to the needs of those around them. Consider the behavior of the very first Christians in Acts – they saw the need among their brethren and either shared or sold their possessions and land so that needs were met, resulting in them having all things in common (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-37).

    Jesus wants us to take care of those who have no help – women without husbands, children without parents – those who are vulnerable to evil schemes concocted by immoral people, those who need love, guidance, reassurance, and/or provision to carry on through life. He wants us to have hearts that are loving, willing to share, and always watchful of any dangers lurking about those we are helping. Pure hearts can allow us to accomplish this. Pure attitudes and pure love for God and our fellow man will help us to obey this command!

    Do all you can to keep yourself unspotted from the world so that you can see those in need and help them with pure intent and sincere care!

You can do it! So can I!!


 

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