2 Corinthians 7:1 (English Standard Version) Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.

We struggle with being holy. That is a fact of life no more complicated than eating, digesting and then excreting waste. We are not yet perfected and will have to deal with this imperfect body.

This verse starts out talking about the promises. There is not just one promise, there are many. Those promises can be focal points for a better life in the here and now. Those promises are supposed to be motivational, but being human, when we set our expectations too high and we  do not see the expected results, disappointment sets in and depression can follow.

A proper understanding of His promises is vital in avoiding disappointment. I believe the scripture can reveal a proper understanding but if we do not study the scriptures with the right attitude we may mislead ourselves and may need help in coming to a right understanding.

Do we study the Word alone? Help won’t be found that way. Do we only fed the Word in a sermon? That is not the proper place for Q&A. Are we in small groups? Better but is there anyone in the group who is mature enough to help answer difficult questions? Does the church have leadership that is helping to track spiritual growth? Do we even care about spiritual growth?

Cares and concerns influence behavior. Paul talks about fear of God but none of us want to live in fear. Can we understand the difference between fear and proper reverence? Respect is high on God’s list. It is almost as high as love. If we can love Him dearly, fear can then take its proper place in understanding that our conscience is telling us we made or are making mistakes.

Adam hid from God when he knew he disobeyed God. We are no different. God does not want us to hide from Him. Confess, repent, turn your face to God and receive that love again we so desperately want. It is after all about that promise to be loved always.