Regard not familiar spirits
Leviticus 19:31 Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God.
In the world of ancient Israel, familiar spirits and wizards were associated with practices of divination, sorcery, and communication with the dead. These were attempts to gain insight into the future, control over one’s destiny, or access to hidden knowledge through supernatural means. People sought out these spiritual shortcuts when they felt uncertain, afraid, or in need of control.
If a truth, this is similar to our modern age today, many are still drawn to occult practices, psychic readings, horoscopes, and other forms of spiritualism. The purpose is the same, a promise of hidden knowledge or control over the unknown.
We live in a world where people want answers, but not necessarily from God. They seek comfort and security but look for it in places where God has clearly told us not to go.
But why does God warn us so strongly against these things? The answer is simple: these practices defile us. They contaminate our souls because they are not from God. They pull us away from His truth and lead us toward darkness.
Leviticus 19:31 states that seeking out familiar spirits and wizards defiles us. Defilement in this context means spiritual corruption. It is the pollution of our hearts, minds, and souls that comes when we engage with forces outside of God’s will.
When we consult spirits or seek knowledge apart from God, we are, in effect, placing our trust in something other than Him. We are telling God that He is not enough—that His wisdom, His provision, and His protection are insufficient for us.
This defilement isn’t just a casual mistake; it has serious consequences. It creates a barrier between us and God, separating us from His love, grace, and truth. It leads us down a path of deception where we lose sight of who God is and what He desires for us.
The Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 11:14 that “Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” Not everything that appears spiritual is from God. The enemy is clever and will use whatever means necessary to lure us away from the true light of Christ, including masquerading as something good or enlightening.
So, what does this mean for us today? How do we apply this commandment to our lives in a world that is filled with so many different voices and influences?
First, we must remember that our trust must be in God alone. When we face uncertainty, pain, or confusion, we are to turn to Him, not to alternative spiritual practices.
Second, we must be vigilant in guarding our hearts and minds from influences that pull us away from God.
Lastly, we must stand firm in our faith and obedience to God’s Word. Obedience to God is not about following a set of rules out of fear or obligation; it is about trusting that His ways are higher and better than ours. When we obey Him, we align ourselves with His will, and we open ourselves to His blessings and protection.
In conclusion, there are no shortcuts to wisdom, no substitutes for God’s power, and no other source of truth. We must regard not familiar spirits or wizards, but instead, turn our hearts fully to the Lord, trusting in Him as our guide, protector, and provider.
God bless you.
Prayer key:
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.
2. Lord, help me to depend on your for wisdom and understanding in Jesus Christ name.
3. Lord, help us to stand firm in faith in Jesus Christ name.
4. Lord, thank you for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.