What You Don't Drive Out Becomes a Problem to You

Scripture:

Numbers 33:55  "But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then it shall come about that those whom you let remain of them will become as pricks in your eyes and as thorns in your sides, and they will trouble you in the land in which you live".

Observation:

As God's people were about to enter the Promised land, He told them to totally eliminate the inhabitants of the land.  They were told not to bargain with them or let any of them live.  If they didn't totally get rid of them, they would later become a problem for them and a pain in their side.  What isn't eliminated becomes trouble later.

Application:

The promised land is a type of salvation for us believers.  It is a wonderful place God has prepared for us, but we have to kick out the former inhabitants of our lives.  We have to eliminate everything of the "old man".  Our old ways, habits, and lifestyle have to be put to death if we are going to truly inhabit the Promised land.  If we don't, these old things will come back to haunt us later in our lives.  Old things must pass away and all things become new.

Prayer:

Father, I don't want any old baggage in my relationship with You.  I want to truly walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh.  Help me not to let the old man rule my life, but to be completely submitted to You in every area.  Guide me I pray.

Your Son,
Jeff