Purity of Heart, Not Puritanism

Philippians 2:14-16 (GNB) "14 Do everything without complaining or arguing, 15 so that you may be innocent and pure as God's perfect children, who live in a world of corrupt and [unloving] people. You must shine among them like stars lighting up the sky, 16 as you offer them the message of life."

A point I often struggle with in my writing and preaching concerns "purity of heart" vs "puritanism." The word "pure" may evoke strong images of up-tight ultra-religious people who refuse to have any fun. I rather view purity as releasing unloving thought and action from ourselves. This release has nothing to do with judging ourselves harshly or punishing ourselves for past unloving action. This release rather has to do with growing up spiritually by choosing Love over ego.  It's one of the hardest things to do, as ego gives us a false sense of control; and in a fearful world, security becomes our primary concern. True courage is shown in our ability to choose loving action over "being right." In practicing release of ego, ask yourself often, "Would you rather be right or be happy?"