Reading:Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” —2 Corinthians 7:1

Daily DevotionalsThe fear of God is the soil in which a godly life is cultivated. The apostle exhorts the Corinthians to break off worldly associations (2 Corinthians 6:14–17) because they hindered their pursuit of godliness and led to further sin. The Corinthians were struggling with the world because they gave room to the flesh and did not fear God as they should. We sin because our consciousness of God is lacking and the indwelling Spirit is ignored and grieved. If we really understood the holiness of God and appreciated His glory, sin would appear more detestable and God would appear more lovely. Let us love Him first and sinning will not be as attractive; holiness will be accomplished in the fear of God.