Looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled (Hebrews 12: 15)
The spread of avian flu throughout the world in the last few years led to millions of birds being destroyed. Once an animal was infected, the entire flock would eventually become infected. So, farmers kept their chickens and turkeys inside as a precaution. To save their animals and their livelihoods, farmers took all the preventive measures they could.
The same is true of spiritual infections, they can be spiritually dangerous and deadly. For instance, the writer of Hebrews warned about a “root of bitterness springing up” in an individual – the result being that many “become defiled” (Hebrews 12:15). Moses warned about the same thing in Deuteronomy 29:18.
But think about it…if bitterness can be spread like an infection, can positive traits like joy be spread as well? Of course! In fact, similar traits might be viewed as prevention against carnal spiritual infections. We can spread love, joy, peace, and other Christlike traits to others. Choose today to be a carrier of joy as you interact with others. Be a super spreader of Christlike traits wherever you go.
Have a blessed February,
Pastor John