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February 5, 1996
Blurred Vision
We have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God. --1 Corinthians 2:12

Although I'm closer to 80 than 70, I still want to think of myself as "a modern man." So I keep up with the news, read current books, and use up-to-date sources when I research a subject. But more important, I want to be thoroughly biblical and Christian in all my thoughts and actions. Because of this, some people who don't like my convictions see me as being narrow-minded.

One temptation we face as believers is to adapt our views to our culture so that we will not be seen as out of touch with the modern world. When we give in to this tendency, however, we find ourselves compromising what we know is right. We find ways to justify immoral behavior that society finds acceptable. We may say that we still believe in the Bible, but we reinterpret its clear meaning on moral and spiritual issues and try to make it say what we want it to say.

Exodus 32 describes how the Israelites allowed their sinful desires to blur their spiritual vision. They wanted to be like their pagan neighbors, so they made an idol and had a sensual worship service. This angered both Moses and the Lord, and resulted in severe judgment.

If we don't take God's Word seriously, our spiritual vision becomes blurred and we will disobey Him.  — Herbert Vander Lugt

If I would win the plaudits of the world,
Then I must lose the presence of my Lord;
I cannot please the godless by my works
And still enjoy the blessings of His Word. --Smith
Don't let the world squeeze you into its mold.

Bible in One Year: Exodus 36-38; Matthew 23:1-22
http://www.rbc.org/devotions.aspx?id=48784
© 2009 RBC MINISTRIES, Grand Rapids, MI 49555 USA.
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