2 Peter 3:14
“Therefore, beloved, as you anticipate these things, make every effort to be found at peace with Him, without spot or blemish.”
The end times puts some concern in us. It has a cleansing affect. That is one motivation for being pure. Another reason is to avoid guilt. It’s miserable to have our consciences beating up on us. Another reason is that it interrupts our relationship with God. The final reason that comes to mind is that it displeases God.
There is freedom in walking rightly before God ( 1 Corinthians 10:23). The Lord doesn’t condemn us (Romans 8:1). That is if we are walking within the confines of scripture. I picture it as a highway in which we walk. The safest part is in the middle. One the extreme, we are getting close to danger and compromise. However, it’s permissible. We are still without spot or blemish.
As we get closer to God, we sense His presence. If our eyes are closed, we can tell the difference if we are in the shade or in the sun. The same with being close to God. He allows us to sense Him. Romans 8:16 says, “His Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” We were made for this. It’s wonderful and constant. Unless we walk off the highway and behave nonbiblically.
Another gift of being close to Him is the peace that He gives. Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” We all have worry and anxiety. He wants to ease that. If we trust Him, He gives us His peace.
The peace of God and the sense of His presence provide great satisfaction. Proverbs 15:15 speaks of the cheerful heart having a continual feast. This is the same. This is a great reason to remain without spot or blameless. Those things that divert us from His will bring some satisfaction. However, they are temporary and lead to misery. Remaining close to Him is most satisfying.
The most mature reason to remain pure is to please Him. I’ll address that next time.
Lord, help us to remain close to You. There are many reasons to do so. Thank You for the great satisfaction that You provide for doing so.