AVOID – A Devotional on Avoiding the things that are destroying our Soul.

How Is It with Your Soul ?

AVOID THIS FOR SOUL CARE

Prepared by Pastor Calvin Cook 11-26-24

Scripture focus – Proverbs 6:16-19 There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.

I am asking this morning; “what do I need to do to have a healthy soul?” As I turn to Proverbs the Holy Spirit reminds me that it is not what I need but what I need to avoid so that my soul may be in the sanctuary of the Lord, renewed, strengthened and made whole.

This passage from Proverbs 6 outlines behaviors that God strongly opposes, many of these behaviors are happening without us even realizing we are engaging in them. Most are fueled by hate, jealousy, and dishonesty. If our focus is not on fully being cared for by the Holy Spirit and a move toward righteousness and holiness, these behaviors will continue to creep in and consume us.

One of those behaviors mentioned is stirring up conflict. I am dealing in ministry everyday with those who are stirring up conflict. While I run from a fight, an argument, or division. This stirring is causing such a great divide within the church that I don’t even believe the ones who are the pot stirrer even realize what they are doing to the community of faith, the Pastors, and the leaders who are devoting so much energy to the building up of the church.

Much of this comes from the attitude of “my way or the hi-way” and a lack of understanding of God’s call on our lives.

These verses show that hate doesn’t just harm personal relationships; it is creating division within the broader community, something God clearly rejects.

I would encourage us all to write these seven traits of destruction of self and community down and use it for a time of holy conferencing with a close trusted friend. Spend time alone with the Holy Spirit asking that the Spirit convicts you and you experience redemption. Then wait and see what God will do with your new attitude and closeness you have been drawn into through the Holy Spirit’s new and improved soul that has been drawn closer to the will of God.

My dear friends, I am not trying to be judgmental in any way. As I have always said these devotionals are written to me and shared with you as a witness to how I am hearing God speak truth into my life.

Praying we are striving to align our attitudes with God. Learning to reject what is truly harmful while continuing to show love and compassion toward others.

Share Jesus with someone today !