“Therefore, “Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord (…).”” 2 Corinthians 6:7

Beloved,

In exodus 30:23-25, the Lord instructed Moses about the recipe of the sacred anointing oil and one of the components of this was cinnamon. Cinnamon is known as a tree that stands alone. It therefore speaks of how we should separate ourselves. This echoes the words of 2 Corinthians 6:7 where we are invited to come from them, how we need to be separate. If you are everywhere, you will end up nowhere (Luke 10:41-42). If you want to earn respect, be rare. You don’t see a goatfish everywhere; scarcity creates value.

In separating, you need to do these 4 things:

a. Define relationships: When you consider people you relate with, do you categorize them and do you know the kind of attitude, discussions you can have with them? For example, do you consider your work mates as friends?

b. Understand boundaries : Once you have defined your relationships, the next thing is to set boundaries. What is it that you can confidently discuss with each category of relationship you have. For example, you know that it is not appropriate to discuss family matters with work colleagues because, if you do so, after you have left that company, that family information will still be there. Understanding boundaries helps you decide what to say to whom.

c. Separate yourself unto God : Proverbs 18:1 says “Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.” You need to make time to relate with God. You need to keep your secret place on fire for God. Somebody once said that those who talk too much with God generally are people of few words with men and vice-versa. It is better and in your own interest to spend time with God for He will so enlighten you that your overall life will be full of good flavors.

d. Separate yourself from people and from places : In separating yourself, there are places you should refuse to be and people you should not be found with. What does a Christian have to do with robbers, alcohol drinkers, etc.? Let’s assume that the police come to pick armed robbers and you happen to be with the robbers at that moment! You may be innocent, but they will take you, and your reputation will significantly be affected.

The call to be separate may sound optional. The truth is, you cannot really enjoy God and the Holy Spirit if you are not separate.