A SERIOUS PROBLEM. Leviticus 13 In a relatively closed society where people live close together, infectious diseases have the potential to infect many individuals. To prevent the spread of contagious illnesses, God included in His instructions for the well-being of the children of Israel a way to manage such situations when they occurred. Leprosy, as described in the scriptures, likely encompassed a range of diseases, including Hansen's disease. However, by definition, it was more inclusive than what is currently known as leprosy. The instructions addressed skin diseases, mildew, and mold on clothing items.
For example, sin impacts every part of a person and influences their actions. When someone allows sin to occupy their mind, even if it is not immediately obvious or there is no evidence at first, it can steal away their peace of mind and their fellowship with God. The song in the heart falls silent. The joy in the soul that lifts our spirits, encourages us, and helps us face each day with hope is lost. Sin's effect on a person's life is serious and negative, impacting our bodies, souls, and spirits.
The mind that "stayed on Christ" loses its direction when sin is allowed to infect us. Thought-life begins to claim control, and the "perfect peace" God intends for us is gone. The will, the part of our soul that makes decisions and keeps us on God's path when sin enters the mind, loses the guidance that keeps us in communion with God. Confusion and uncertainty take over our focus, and instead of the assurance the Word of God provides, our choices become impulsive and may oppose God's will. When sin enters the mind, it quickly influences the will and takes over our emotions. Instead of peace, we experience uncertainty. Instead of joy, sorrow arises. Instead of love, suspicion and hostility emerge. What was once a life that was effective, fruitful, and satisfying becomes a sad, isolating experience.
Sin not only affects me and my life, but also affects others. It is destructive to my life and leads to division, separation, and unhappiness. The priests in Israel acted as doctors, diagnosing disease when something obvious appeared on a person's skin. It was their responsibility to protect the rest of the children of Israel from a problem that could affect everyone. Decisions about the issue were not made lightly. The lives of the leper, his family, and others were involved.
Snap judgments and quick decisions are not the right way to handle serious problems. When we know something has entered our lives with serious consequences, it is wise to pause and consider every aspect of the situation. How will it affect me? What impact will it have on my family? Will the Lord's people be blessed or hindered by this decision I am making? Most importantly, how will it affect my fellowship with the Lord? Will it hinder the work God has entrusted to me?
The suffering of the leper and the loneliness of his life would be so intense that everyone would fear getting diagnosed by the priest. It would be crucial for the priest to follow God's instructions carefully, to prevent the whole camp from being infected. Once, Miriam was outside the camp for a whole week because of leprosy. In her case, it was due to unfair criticism of God's servant Moses. Gehazi, the prophet's servant, made a greedy decision that affected his entire family for generations to come. A wrong move for selfish gain, a greedy decision rooted in materialism, or an unfounded opinion about a scripture verse can mislead many people.
The type of sin that leprosy teaches us is a salient warning about every decision we make each day. Something may not seem serious at first, but after careful thought, we realize the potential for harm a bad choice can cause. When deciding whether something is right or wrong, take the time to review it carefully. What good can come from this? What sin might result from this decision? How will it impact me personally? What might happen to my family if I do this? Will the Lord's people be helped or hindered if I go there? Can I ask for God's blessing on this activity? Would I be willing to take the Lord Jesus there and have Him participate in this activity?
Such questions, when asked by a child of God, can prevent serious problems in our lives. The impact is not just on people, but also influences where I live, the type of work I do, the clothes I wear, and the places I visit. My choices affect how I approach God and the fellowship I share with Him.