“So Moses said to the people, “This is a day to commemorate forever 0 the day you left Egypt, the place of your slaver. Today the Lord has brought you out by the power of His mighty hand. (Remember, eat no food containing yeast.)” (Exodus 13:3 NLT)
Moses instructed his people to annually remember God’s incredible intervention in their story – and to keep the yeast out.
Do you recall your own fantastic escape from the slavery of sin? Do you revisit the footfalls of your journey out of captivity and into a life marked by God-favor and presence? I do. I want to live well aware of the grandiose effort our God put forth to free me from my chains.
Moses reminds his people and the reader; stay away from yeast. This command of course has to do with the lead up to annual Passover and the ritual distinction between God-follower and pagan. But new testament believers recall Jesus instructions to His disciples:
“Be careful,” Jesus said to them, “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” (Matthew 16:6 NIV)
Sin slips in, often unnoticed. Yes, we’ve escaped it’s obvious chains and task master, but we can bring the yeast of Egypt with us unintentionally. If we do not guard against it’s pervasive effects, it will seep through our entire lives, silently slinking a chain around our souls once more. Only the second time it is far more challenging to identify and cast off it’s ugly fetters.
Might I suggest again, daily confession? Yes, it’s a drum I keep beating, but realize the power of circadian rhythms of confession. Spirit-led reflection and contrition is the surest guard against the pervasive yeast of the Pharisees. Allow the Word and the Spirit ready access to the deepest reaches of your soul: give permission to cut away whatever fails to give God glory.
“Search me, God and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24 NIV)
“All scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV)
Lord, please rid us of yeast. We yield to Your Spirit searchlight, longing to live in accord with Your Word. Put us on guard agains the sin that seeks to ensnare our souls. Thank You for leading us out of Egypt, for providing a means to escape slavery. May we live in a way that honors Your sacrifice. Amen.