August 13

Read: II Corinthians 6:17–7:1

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 (II Corinthians 7:1).

We Must Never Be Indifferent

The devil will not allow us to become strong Christians if he can prevent it. If he cannot discourage us over our shortcomings in the sanctified life, he will encourage an attitude of indifference. We are sometimes tempted to shrug our shoulders and say: “Oh, well, everyone is different. That measure of victory is fine for others, but it is not possible for me.” With a comic strip character we are tempted to say: “I yam what I yam, and I can’t be any yammer!”

Such false resignation in the face of recognized weakness is but poorly masked spiritual indifference. This unconcern is as disastrous as discouragement — and less Christlike. If I am discouraged by my failure it is clear proof that I recognize my conduct as unworthy of a Christian. It is also proof that I am not content to live a life inconsistent with my Christian profession. On the other hand, indifference to any unloving attitude has in it the seeds of carnality. Such indifference quickly cuts the nerve of all growth in holiness. If I do not care about my bad behavior, my spirit is not like the spirit of Jesus. He cared when any man did wrong.

The attitude of the sanctified heart must always be a strong desire for a greater measure of the spirit of Jesus. God’s Word exhorts us, “Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, and make holiness perfect in the fear of God” (R.S.V.).

A charge to keep I have, A God to glorify; A never-dying soul to save, And fit it for the sky.

— Charles Wesley