by Pastor Rich Carlson

God still likes us to respond to His goodness. Obedience is still a healthy way to live as a Christian. Here’s how today’s verse breaks down.

The chapter begins with, “Since we have these promises.” Just before this verse is the famous “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers," (6:14) and then a list of promises.

If you’re walking with God it’s tough to walk with someone who isn’t. We are each God’s temple, and Paul says, “What agreement is there between the temple of God and the temples of idols?” (6:16) Wrapped inside this passage is a statement, the promises, and the conclusion of the matter:

The statement: “We are the temple of the living God.” (6:16)

God promises (6:16, 18):
• I will live with them
• I will walk among them
• I will be their God
• They will be my people
• I will be a Father to them

The conclusion: “So come out of them and be separate” (6:17).

I may associate, and should associate with those not seeking God right now in their lives so that I can be an influence for good. But I cannot and should not link myself with them in any way that might compromise the focus and the commitment I have been called to in Jesus.

“Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit.”
The appropriate response to God’s promises is to make a decision to rid myself of anything that could cause me harm or dishonor Him.

Maybe the admonition about not being “unequally yoked” to unbelievers is bigger than not marrying someone who doesn’t go to my church. Maybe it’s about the decision not to link myself to anyone who might tear me down or pull me away from God in any way.

“Out of reverence for God.”
This is the motivation for that decision. I do not obey God so I can earn credit with Him or so I can give Him more reason to save me.
Only respect and reverence for the God who does so much for me causes me to want to live my life fully dedicated to Him. Want to join me?

Rich Carlson is campus chaplain at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska. “God Is Faithful” is adapted from the email devotionals he writes regularly for the Union College family. Rich enjoys filling his life with God, his family, and especially his five grandchildren.