I … have severed you. Leviticus 20:26 It seems to some men that God goes too far when He calls for our lives to be different. Why not blend in with the crowd instead of trying to stand apart? But the God I serve is so unique that there’s no way to compare Him with others. His character and the life He gives, make believers in Christ all brothers and sisters in His family. Unlike the strange gods of the world, He is a God known for His love. Unlike the idols carved by men, He, the source of life, offers life that idols cannot provide. He is the God of the helpless, children, and the needy – not like worldly gods who only take. He is an unselfish God who gives – not demands; His own Son gave His life for the sheep.
It is not unreasonable when He commands that our bodies and lives must be pure. Living like those in the society all around us would badly pollute future generations. Whether I like it or not, there’s an influence I cast—either good or bad—at my age. I am “severed” from those around me by His claims, but I can still show them His grace. Living by men’s laws, customs, and ways does not align with the God I serve. I am a child of the King, and I can bring His influence into every situation in my life. Each day, I make distinctions on my path as I move through this land like a pilgrim. My true home is not here, and I don’t dare act on situations based solely on what I see.
My Heavenly Father has left me here to show others what He desires. He promises grace when I stand on His promises despite my own weakness. When it comes to my choices—whether to do it or not—I remember that I have been “severed from other people.” I am not free to act like those around me. I have been bought by the precious blood of Christ, and I am delivered from sin.
It is a serious offense to my Father, who loves me, to allow what offends Him a place in my daily life. What offends Him should also offend me. That is one way I show love when I plan my day. I remember that I’m not my own. My Father, in grace, has separated me from all that defiles what is His. His truth has been clearly revealed to me.