You Must Not Do As They Do

Leviticus 18.1The LORD said to Moses,2"Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'I am the LORD your God. 3You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices. 4You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the LORD your God. 5Keep my decrees and laws, for the man who obeys them will live by them. I am the LORD.

While reading Leviticus 18 may cause you to shudder or blush, the main message is clear: Do not determine what behavior is appropriate by looking at others. Others-Egyptians, Canaanites or your own leaders and brothers-can mislead you.

We have only one infallible guide-the Words of our Holy God (2 Timothy 3.16-17). Look at your own attitudes and behavior and ask, "What is the source of this?" If it is from the world, cast it aside. If it from God, cling to it, nurture it and grow up in Christ.

This is not easy when we hear so many voices calling us but it is the only way that leads to eternal live. Spend time each day listening to the voice of God. Let us be transformed daily by mental renewal with His Word. Romans 12.1I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (KJV)

1 John 2.15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16For everything in the world-the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does-comes not from the Father but from the world. 17The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.

Prayer

Dear Father, we hear many voices and it is easy for us to be like those around us-those who are not under the control of Jesus. Father, save us from wasting our lives in this way. Help us to be strengthened and transformed by Your power each day. We are grateful for this power. Help those who are hurting. We ask this in the name of Christ, the Obedient One. Amen. Let us be thankful and prayerful!

By Brad Forgy, Used by Permission