Daily Companion | 25 January
DEFILED AND DEFEATED
‘Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart." —2 Timothy 2:22.
Two sad stories of two female youths continues to resonate over the ages: Dinah and Tamar. Dinah, Jacob’s daughter, ventured out to visit the women of the land (Genesis 34:1). Her choice to explore unfamiliar territory placed her in danger. Shechem, a local prince, saw her, took her, and defiled her. This tragic incident triggered a series of violent events, bringing shame and suffering to her family.
The sad story of Dinah highlights the devastating consequences of unchecked desires, poor decisions, and lack of discernment. Their experiences offer powerful lessons for today’s youth, urging us to live wisely and avoid actions that lead to defilement, whether sexually, physically, or spiritually.
Tamar, King David’s daughter, endured a similar fate. Her half-brother Amnon became consumed with lust for her. Instead of resisting his sinful desires, he plotted to isolate her and ultimately violated her (2 Samuel 13:1-14). This led to Tamar’s devastation and Amnon’s death at the hands of her brother Absalom.
Drawing from these stories, as a child of God you are to:
- Guard Your Choices: Choose your environments and friends carefully. Dinah’s story teaches us to be mindful of where we go and who we associate with. Proverbs 13:20 says, “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.”
- Flee Temptation
Amnon’s downfall began with unchecked lust. Instead of resisting, he allowed his desires to grow. When faced with temptation, Scripture calls us to flee and pursue righteousness (2 Timothy 2:22). - Respect God’s Boundaries
Both stories highlight the consequences of ignoring God’s moral standards. Sexual immorality defiles the body and soul (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). Respecting God’s design for purity protects us from harm. - Seek Accountability
Amnon confided in Jonadab, a friend who encouraged his sinful desires. Surround yourself with godly mentors and friends who will hold you accountable and guide you toward honoring God. - Immerse Yourself in God’s Word
Psalm 119:11 says, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Regular meditation on Scripture strengthens you to resist temptation. - Pray for Strength
Jesus taught us to pray, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:13). Prayer keeps us spiritually alert and reliant on God’s power. - Guard Your Heart and Mind
Focus on what is pure and honorable (Philippians 4:8). Avoid influences that can lead to sin. - Flee When Necessary
Like Joseph fleeing from Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:12), don’t negotiate with temptation—run from it.
Conclusion
Dinah and Tamar’s stories remind us of the dangers of unwise choices and unchecked desires. As you navigate life, pursue purity, wisdom, and obedience to God. Victory is possible when you trust Him and follow His ways. Commit today to live a life that honors God and safeguards your soul.
Today’s Recite: ‘’as long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world’’ John 9:5
Today’s Morning Prayers: (i) Thank you Lord for making me a problem-solver. (ii) Lord, I am sorry for my previous wrong approach. Please, Lord, pardon me. (iii) Right now, I receive grace to handle all issues right in Jesus’ name. (iv) I declare solution to every issue I handle henceforth in Jesus' name (v) Lord be thou glorified in all in Jesus name.
Today Hymn: Brighten The Corner Where You Are
Today ReadMe: Exodus 22 – 24
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