March 10, 2014 Set Apart

Set Apart

Exodus 8

Ex 8: 22-23 “But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where my people dwell, so that no swarms of flies shall be there, that you may know that I am the Lord in the midst of the earth.  23 Thus I will put a division between my people and your people. Tomorrow this sign shall happen.”

WHEN we treasure something, perhaps an heirloom, a special autographed picture, a favorite picture or even a special Bible, we tend to put those treasures in a place to keep them safe. We set them apart for safekeeping.

     The Almighty God had set apart a people to be his treasured possession. He promised he would keep them safe. “Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine.” (Exodus 19:5) God set his people apart from the other nations of the world to save them from the world’s sins—for example the horrible worship of gods in Egypt that caused parents to even sacrifice their children to fire.

     Today, God still calls people to be his treasured possession. He sets apart those who confess their sins and call on Jesus as their Lord. This setting apart is called sanctification. You are set apart to live under the obedience of God’s gracious commands to guide you to a faithful life now, leading you to eternal life.

     Sanctified in Jesus’ blood, you are set apart from other people in the earth, and you are saved from worshiping false gods such as consumerism and material wealth that can cause you to sacrifice your children to self-focus.

     Aren’t you glad God sets you apart to save you?

LIFE Link: Set apart some time each day to focus on God.