Faith + Hope + Love

The Bible provides clear warnings and guidance about behaviors and attitudes that lead us away from God. Galatians 5:19-21 lists the "works of the flesh," which include uncleanness, lasciviousness, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, and revelries. These are not just outdated terms but timeless warnings about spiritual pitfalls. Understanding the Terms: 1. Uncleanness and Lasciviousness: These represent moral impurity and unbridled lust. Romans 1:24 states, “Therefore God gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves.” Purity requires honoring God with our thoughts and actions. Example: Joseph in Genesis 39 resisted Potiphar’s wife’s advances, demonstrating purity over indulgence. 2. Variance and Emulations: Variance refers to discord and quarrels, while emulations imply jealousy or striving to outdo others for selfish reasons. Philippians 2:3 reminds us, “Do nothi...

The fire of God is a powerful and multifaceted symbol throughout Scripture. It represents His divine presence, His purifying work in our lives, His consuming power, and His glory. This fire is not destructive for His people, but transformative—refining, empowering, and purging us to become vessels for His glory. 1. The Fire of God’s Presence and Protection In Isaiah 43:2 , God promises, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” This verse assures us that God's fire is a protective presence, shielding us from harm and guiding us through life’s challenges. Similarly, in Zechariah 2:5 , God declares, “For I,” says the Lord, “will be a wall of fire around her, and I will be the glory in her midst.” His fire surrounds His people as a protective barrier, ensuring that no weapon formed against them can pro...