What Are Strange Fires?
“Don't play with fire”, we were told as kids. Now older, we play with more dangerous fires - strange fires that God hates.
WHAT ARE STRANGE FIRES?
Disobeying God's word or ways (Leviticus 10:1)
Idol worship (Jeremiah 7:16-19)
Wickedness (Jeremiah 19:4)
Sexual sin (Proverbs 6:27)
Gossip (Proverbs 26:20)
Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, created strange fire not prescribed by God during the ordination ceremony. It led to immediate death for both because they openly disobeyed God in His glorious presence. There is only one way, Jesus. He has finished our work before the Father to present us holy and blameless in love. Remain in God's ways - follow Jesus.
An idol is anyone or anything that gives us more joy than Jesus. Today, people enjoy parties and picnics more than the presence of God. Christians are becoming more like the world - mixing cultures, diluting standards, etc.
The world is full of Wickedness. Every thought and imagination of the godless is wicked (Genesis 6). (Psalms 7:14) The wicked conceive evil; they are pregnant with trouble and give birth to lies.
Sexual sins have a reputation as the 'man's greatest weakness'. Scripture warns us numerous times of this deadly evil. Many lives remain bound for years because of neglecting to stand against it.
Gossip is underestimated. But it is a raging fire. Discussing unconfirmed details about others is evil. Words matter. Let our words and meditation be pleasing to God.
Guard your heart, dear child of God. The battle is spiritual. The attack is against our minds and hearts. Hold onto God's unfailing Word.
Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.
