Matthew 5:8
Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Dear Beloved, today, I invite you to join me on a journey to
explore a topic that is both vital and challenging – the pursuit of purity. The
call to purity is not a call to perfection, but a call to strive towards a life
that reflects the character and love of our God.
In the book of Psalms, David asks, "Who may ascend
the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place?" The answer
he gives is, "The one who has clean hands and a pure heart"
(Psalm 24:3-4). This scripture paints a picture of purity as an essential
quality for those who seek to dwell in God's presence.
Purity is a matter of the heart and allowing God to transform us, renewing our mind and separating from impurities that might pollute our body, mind, and soul. It is an inward virtue that reflects outwardly in our words, actions, and attitudes. It is not merely about abstaining from wrong actions, but about nurturing right attitudes. It is not just about avoiding sin, but about pursuing God.
However, in a world that often glorifies the opposite,
maintaining purity can seem like a daunting task. Influences that can easily
taint our hearts and minds surround us. The media, the internet, even our
social circles can often promote values that contradict God's standards of
purity.
But, beloved, do not be disheartened. Remember, we serve a
God who is greater than the world. As John wrote, "You, dear children,
are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater
than the one who is in the world" (1 John 4:4). With God's help and
grace, we can overcome the world's influences and maintain our purity.
The key to maintaining purity is to guard our hearts.
Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Above all else, guard your heart, for
everything you do flows from it." We must be vigilant about what we
allow into our hearts and minds. We must be discerning about the media we
consume, the conversations we engage in, and the company we keep.
We can also maintain purity through constant communion with
God. As we spend time in prayer, worship, and the study of God's Word, we allow
His Spirit to cleanse and renew us daily. As David prayed, "Create in
me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me" (Psalm
51:10). We, too, can pray this prayer and trust God to purify our hearts.
Purity is not a solitary pursuit. We are called to encourage
and support each other on this journey. In Hebrews 10:24-25, we are admonished
to "consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,
not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but
encouraging one another."
Beloved, pursuing purity is not a burden, but a blessing. It
is a path that leads to a closer walk with God, a deeper understanding of His
Word, and a greater manifestation of His love in our lives. It is a journey
that brings peace, joy, and fulfilment.
Let us, therefore, commit ourselves to this pursuit. Let us
strive for purity in our thoughts, words, and actions. Let us guard our hearts
with diligence, commune with God continually, and encourage each other
faithfully. And as we do, we can be confident that God, who began a good work
in us, will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus
(Philippians 1:6).
May God bless you and keep you. May He make His face shine
upon you and be gracious to you. May He turn His face towards you and give you
peace as you journey towards a life of purity. In Jesus’ name. Amen.