Put to death whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these the wrath of God is coming. (Col. 3:5,6)
We have been raised with Christ (vs.1), so we are above the grave. The grave is full of things that are unholy. Jews could not touch a dead body, lest they become unclean. So we are unclean when we who are raised go back to the grave- like things that pull down our soul. There are really only two sins mentioned here in different ways: sexual immorality and greed. Both want what is not ours to have. Both start with lust and evil desires. Both spurn contentment with what God has given us. Both put ourselves in God's place as if we know better. So, in a sense both sexual immorality and greed are idolatry. Both put earthly desires ahead of heavenly desires. And yes, both are prevalent in western culture today. Our recessiin is fueled by greed-- too much debt. America is known as the country that peddles pornography and adultery and has distinguished itself in many states and some churches by saying homosexuality suddenly is no longer a sin. Sodom and Gomorrah are visible examples of this passage, for God's clear wrath came upon them. Jesus told us to "remember Lot's wife" ( Lk- 17:32). Lot's wife had a hard time not going back to her city's old ways. She didn't want to leave so many friends and things behind. It is hard to put these things to death, but we should not fool ourselves into thinking it is impossible. Jesus own life shows us it is possible.
Prayer: Help me, O God, to put to death a lust for more and more. Help me grow in trust and contentment in you.
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