Introductory Thoughts
Separation is the outcome of separation! When a nation (i.e., Israel in the Old Testament) or an individual (i.e., a believer in the New Testament) is set apart by the Lord, that nation (or person) has become disassociated with the rest of the world. Moses made this point in Exodus 33:16 when he said, “For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.” Separation is not something accomplished through diligence but occurs naturally after a person comes to know Christ as Saviour. Christians who remain attached to the world find little satisfaction with the things of the world or less appeal for the things of God.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): John 15:19 tells us that when you know the Lord and live for Him, others who dont know Him will hate you. Read one account in 1 John 3:12-13. Those caught up in worldly endeavours may make fun of you when you go to church faithfully, read your Bible diligently, or dress godly, etc. (1 Peter 4:4).
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(For everyone): Have you trusted the Lord as Saviour? How has this wisest of decisions changed your ability to closely associate with those who have not yet trusted the Lord as their Saviour? How has it affected your relationship with those who are saved but love the world (1 John 2:15)?
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Who were your closest friends before you were born again? Who are your closest friends now? Are they the same? Why is that? Are they different? Why?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to help you examine your separation from others.
- Thank the Lord for the changes He has brought about in your life.
Song
I Am Resolved
