We’ve discussed the idea that “a house divided against itself cannot stand”.  If you participated in the exercise from last week, you’ll have your activity list handy. The list was made up of activities you have in your life and how they compared to your mission and vision statement for your life. Now, it’s time to go a bit deeper.

When my husband and I explored the western part of the United States, we saw many beautiful sights. One place we stopped to admire was the Rio Grande River in New Mexico. This is not the part that separates the United States from Mexico, that only applies to Texas and Mexico. Looking at the picture, it would seem there was not much separating the two sides, and you would be correct. I was amazed at how little the river was compared to its “Grande” name!

Here’s the thing. Something that separates larger areas (Texas and Mexico), always starts as a small division somewhere else (Colorado and New Mexico). Before we allow the river of life to cascade through and become wider, we must analyze what is causing the separateness.

Just like a river, life has a lot of curves. Something that started out as a small activity or habit in our life grows larger until it is separating us from the other side. But, is the other side always bad? Not always.

We each have habits that can separate us from God: busyness of life, going to places we don’t belong, not spending time with God. In the same regard, we all have habits that draw us closer to God: prayer, corporate worship at church, listening to His leading. What we need to remember is that when we draw closer to God we choose to separate ourselves from evil. Remember, not all separation is bad. One day, upon our ultimate healing in heaven, we will see the complete separation from sin.

Until then, know this for sure, we are not all that far from evil. We might be on the other side of the river by the choices we are making, but we can cross at any time. Be careful, the enemy is waiting for you to fall. Watch carefully what you do and what you don’t do. Make sure your decisions are in line with God.

What activity, person, or circumstance is separating you from God?

Likewise, what separates you from evil?

© 2014 Susan M. Sims

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