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Disgusted!

The basic definition of the word “disgusted” is “feeling or expressing revulsion or strong disapproval.” There are many things that we might find disgusting, such as a foul odor, spoiled food, and foul language heard in music, television or in public. We each have our own list of things that ignite our “strong disapproval” and disgust. 

Yes, the Bible has something to say about being disgusted. Romans 12:9, “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” At first glance, you may be curious as to how this verse is even related to being “disgusted.” Let’s look! 

The word “hate” in this passage is the Greek word “ἀποστυγέω” which is a verb that means “abhore” or “to utterly detest.” The word “abhore” means “to regard with disgust and hatred.” There is your word “disgust” as it is showing us in Romans 12:9, that we are to find “disgust with” or to “passionately detest” all forms and appearances of evil. 

There are seven things that God finds to be an abomination in His sight. We are warned that two of those deal with the evil we, too, should abhor. Proverbs 16:18, “…a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil….” We should never dwell or act upon evil, nor respond passively or blindly to the things that are evil. 

We must have nothing to do with the ways of evil and make the decision to “not go there.” We are reminded of 1 Thessalonians 5:22, “reject every kind of evil. It is a choice and we must choose to resist the urge and temptation to give in and answer the desires of our flesh by succumbing to evil. 

When we fall, we must rightfully acknowledge that we made the choice. We cannot blame someone else and say, “they made me do it.” James 1:13-14, “When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.” 

Always remember the wonderful news that when this happens, and we fail, we can confess our sin to God and ask for forgiveness. 1 John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 

However, with “self-control” as a fruit of the Holy Spirit, we can stand firm in our faith and rise-above the temptations of evil to gain the victory. 1 Corinthians 10:13, “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” 

It is time to take responsibility for our actions in thought, word, and deed. No matter the influence of the ever-changing social norms of our society and world, we must stand firm upon the principles of God’s Word and His commands to us on how to live the holy life that is expected of us. Bluntly stated, we are without excuse when we give in to evil and sin. We must put forth the effort to resist urges to give into our fleshly desires.

We must cry out to the Holy Spirit to give us strength and self-control. We need to seek a trusted friend or family member to help us, encourage us, and keep us accountable with living out a holy and sanctified life pleasing to God. This is why small groups or "bands" are so crucial to spiritual growth.

Nearly all the things of this world should be disgusting enough to us that we will have nothing to do with them. Entertainment, gaming, music, social norms, and anything that appeals to the human flesh is a tool of Satan to destroy us. The godless things of this world add no value to us now, or in eternity. We cannot have one foot in the world and one foot in the Church. It is “either-or” but never “both.” Choose a side. Choose Jesus.

Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Take inventory of everything that you are allowing into your life right now. Music. Social Media. Television programs. Books/magazines. Clubs and organizations. Friends and social settings frequented. Hobbies. Any other interest or thing that has your time and attention. 

If they are not helping you to live a sanctified life where you are becoming holy and pleasing to God, then ask God to open your eyes and hearts so that these things will become disgusting and abhorrent to you. God is more than pleased and willing to help you have victory over anything that He considers evil. Continue developing and maintaining your disgust for all forms of evil.


LISTEN: "Live for Jesus" by Evie: May it help remind us of our need to fight the temptations of evil!


 

 


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