Toxic Cleanup
Every year the Oxford Dictionary votes for the “word of the year.” Oxford describes this as “a word or expression that is judged to reflect the ethos, mood, or preoccupations of the passing year, and have lasting potential as a term of cultural significance.”
The word chosen for 2018 was the word toxic[1]. Though other meanings apply, the predominant use of the word was tied to the political sphere. Many accused others of “identity politics” which create a toxic political environment.
Finger-pointing isn’t new. Nor are charges of racism, favoritism and prejudice. These have been around for centuries, as has “toxicity” in many forms.
The word toxic sounds a warning for those willing to listen.
But listen to whom?
Conflicting voices abound. Right, Left; religious, secular.
So many channels vying for attention. Which do we tune into?
We have a sure source of truth: the Bible.
In the Hebrew scriptures the word רֹאשׁ [rosh] has a full range of meanings. One use reflects the idea of poisonous or venomous.[2] Moses uses the word to describe “poisonous fruit” that results from the root of people ensnared in idolatry.[3] The Hebrew scriptures show us the dangers when we become toxic in our hearts.[4]
Toxic people seek after things other than the God of the scriptures. It may be other gods, religions or the temporary satisfaction this world offers.
They may spread their poison knowingly or in ignorance of the consequences. They have no regard for our all-knowing, all-seeing, holy God.
“Toxic” may be used to describe the polarized political climate of our day. But in the spiritual realm, the word serves as a warning: we all are in need of the antidote to the poison (sin) that has produced spiritual death in us.[5]
What if the 2018 word of the year “toxic” would be replaced by the word “regenerated?”[6] We pray many will yet this year have their sins washed away through trusting Jesus for the salvation He freely offers all who place their faith in Him.
Don’t let “toxic” be your word of the year. There’s still time in 2018 for a “toxic cleanup.”[7]
Would you contact us so we can share the truth of how this can happen in your life today?
Written by Jeff, LIFE Staff
Footnotes:
[1] https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/word-of-the-year/word-of-the-year-2018
[2] Brown, Driver, and Briggs, 912.2.
[3] Deuteronomy 29:18-20.
[4] Amos 6:12.
[5] Ecclesiastes 7:20; Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23.
[6] Ezekiel 36:25-27; John 3:3; Titus 3:4-7;1 Peter1:23.
[7] Isaiah 1:18