We are still learning to come out of the House of Bondage and into the House of God. We talked about recognizing a need and asking for help. Then, we must be aware of shame cycles keeping us oppressed and repent, turning toxic shame into healthy shame. The last step we reviewed is to allow the light and blood of the Lamb of God to restore us to our original state as image-bearers of the Holy One. Today, I will explore one of the most challenging parts of coming out of addiction: division. This division, though difficult, is a necessary step towards spiritual growth and freedom.
One of the names of God is HaMavdil, translated as the One who divides, distinguishes, or separates. On the first day of creation, God divides light from the darkness after creating light. Last week’s post established the new beginning produced by the Passover Lamb’s blood and light. After allowing the life of Yeshua to produce light for us, we must allow the Holy One to separate us from any environment, relationship, community, or surrounding that keeps us enslaved. The division process is tricky because often, these are family members, childhood friends, communities that are like families to us, or even partners that He is trying to separate us from because they will keep us from a new path.
At this stage, we do not need to be the ones making distinctions, but we must allow it to happen. Just as God began distinguishing between the Egyptians and the Israelites before the Passover Lamb, He guides us through this separation process. This is to prepare us for the regathering to come, assuring us that we are not alone in this journey. Take comfort in knowing that you are being guided and supported by the Holy One through this process.
Palah is the Hebrew word for being distinct, marked out, separated, or distinguished by being admirable or illustrious.
Exodus 8:22: And in that day I will set apart (pala) the land of Goshen, in which My people dwell, that no swarms of flies shall be there, in order that you may know that I am the Lord in the midst of the land.
Pedut is another Hebrew word used for division but usually means redemption. I understand this to mean that to redeem us, God must separate us from death or darkness.
Exodus 9:23: I will make a difference (pedut) between My people and your people. Tomorrow this sign shall be.
Hail came down in Egypt except for the land of Goshen where the Israelites dwelt (Ex. 9:25-26). The plague of darkness was in Egypt, but the Israelites living in Goshen had light (Ex. 10:22-23). If we haven’t already separated and regathered with like-minded people from the beginning, then God will start separating, and you will feel the repercussions of it. Separation is painful regardless of the type. We have to go through a grieving process whenever there is a loss. But remember, you are not alone in this. Others are going through the same process, and together, you can find strength and support to navigate through this. You must step away from what is safe and comfortable, which can be terrifying, and trust that God will place you in the right environment, prepare the right relationships for you, and be with you every step of the way. God’s divine plan for you is freedom and wholeness. When we align with this plan, we will be on a path of life.
Deuteronomy 30:19: I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live.
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