Allergy: July 12, 2010

Today's Word for Monday July 12, 2010

ALLERGY

DEFINITION

An overreaction of the immune system to a previously encountered ordinarily harmless substance resulting in skin rash, swelling of mucous membranes, sneezing or wheezing. Having an allergy to something; averse.

SCRIPTURE

"Avoid from every form of evil." 1 Thessalonians 5:22

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

We have several grandchildren that are allergic to several kinds of foods. Even a small amount of these items are detrimental to their health. For some reason many people today struggle with allergies. For some it is food, for some it is plants and for others it is the air because of the allergens in it. An allergy makes an individual very uncomfortable and normally affects their physical well being; therefore, it is necessary to do all one can to avoid the cause of the allergy.

Each of us as believers in Jesus has dangers that we need to stay away from to maintain our spiritual health. These dangers are spiritual allergies. This scripture that we have put above makes it clear as to what we are "allergic to" spiritually. It says for us to stay away from every form of evil. This should make us think about the choices we make in life.

We need to remember that when we take part of something that is clearly evil it is not good for our spiritual vitality and becomes an allergy that we have to fight daily. Just as everyone with an allergy has to avoid the cause, so Christians must avoid situations that lead them to do things that are evil.

In 11 Timothy 2:23 we are reminded to, "avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife." These are evil and we as believers are allergic to them. In Titus 3:9 we are told to, "Avoid foolish disputes, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless." Some arguments or disputes could have merit when they are made to defend our faith but this takes discernment on our behalf. But for most arguments, they have no spiritual merit thus they only cause dissension. So do your best to stay away from these "allergies."

Are we willing to make an effort daily to steer clear of the things that we are spiritually "allergic to"? To avoid sin in our lives, which are allergies, we need to nip temptations in the bud. Psalm 34:14 tells us to, "turn from evil and do good." When we sin and do evil it is because we choose to do it. It is a conscious choice. God wants us to choose to turn from evil and choose to do good.

LEARNING

Our memory verse for this week is found in 1 John 1:9.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

PRAYER

Give me the wisdom to avoid foolish and ignorant disputes as I face life today. Help me to communicate to my family and my friends those foolish arguments and disputes that do not honor You. Make my life shine to day in a way that others may see Christ through me.