Coming out of the world is one thing, but getting the world out of us is another. When we surrender our lives to Jesus Christ, we are called to separate ourselves from the sinful ways of the world. However, some habits, attitudes, desires, and behaviours from our former lives may still remain within us. These are the particles of worldliness that we must allow God to remove from our lives. Some believers have left their former sinful lifestyles but still struggle with laziness, dishonesty, pride, anger, jealousy, addictions, unforgiveness, and other ungodly habits. Although they have physically separated themselves from worldly associations, certain worldly attitudes and practices still influence their thoughts and actions. True separation from the world must therefore involve both outward conduct and inward transformation. As we await the return of Jesus Christ, we must continually examine ourselves and allow the Word of God and the Holy Spirit to purify our hearts. It is not enough to come out of the world; we must also get the world out of us. Let us put away every ungodly habit and pursue holiness in every area of our lives. Scriptural Readings for the Day 2 Corinthians 7:1 (KJV) “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” Ephesians 4:22–24 (KJV) 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Colossians 3:8–10 (KJV) 8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Prayer Heavenly Father, search my heart and reveal every ungodly habit, attitude, and desire that remains in me. Cleanse me from every particle of worldliness and transform my thoughts, character, and conduct. Give me the grace to put off the old man and walk in true holiness as I await the return of Jesus Christ, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
