Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. 2 Corinthians 7:1 NIV

What comes to mind when you hear the words contaminated, filthiness, defilement, pollution, and toxic? For me, I immediately feel a call to action: find the Lysol, mask, gloves, solution, etc. Honestly, another initial response might be to find an escape route from the area under siege from the awful state.

But what if the thing contaminated is ME! Not exactly an item where I can separate from or run away from. What can I do? How can I cleanse myself? Where is the root cause? And the list continues as I ponder the solution.

In 2 Corinthians 7:1, Paul is very clear about contamination. The overall message is that this is a state we all find ourselves in. He looks at the condition from an internal and external lens.

The External (Flesh):

Externally, there is pollution all around affecting us. However, this is also our own fleshly actions, words, and habits. Ex: aftereffects of the tongue, “rotten/corrupt words” or digital/social distractions, or toxic complaining. This is where accountability can be applied.

The Internal (Spirit):

This is about our thoughts, motives, and “heart-squirrels.” It is my hot mess area where my mind squirrels onto things outside of God’s goodness, such as pride, envy, or malice. For me, it is the struggle between my heart and my head. It is a constant battle of staying focused, letting God lead, and getting out of the way. This is where the surrender can be applied.

When studying the entire chapter 7 in 2 Corinthians and then reflecting on the application, I began thinking about “finding a solution” for my contamination internally and externally. Let me share three takeaways:

• I need cleansing, and I do not possess the independent power to do so. Thank goodness, true cleansing is God’s work. He promises us that we can receive purification through the efficacy of Christ’s blood and the acceptance of Jesus Christ as our Savior.

• I must embrace sanctification. The Holy Spirit lives within me. The Spirit works inwardly to assist in the process of purification. It is about perseverance: staying on the right course and choosing to live under the authority of the Lord daily.

• I can strive to do the opposite and find healthier habits. If I determine my “contaminants” and pair them with “opposing” virtues and spiritual disciplines, I can choke out the contaminants. This was an ah-ha moment for me.

Below is an example of embracing an opposing mindset. I pray this perspective helps you begin determining your own contaminants and finding a solution that you can embrace as well:

The Spiritual Decontamination Chart

Contaminant	The Opposing Virtue	The Practical Habit
Worry	Faith & Trust	The Sacred Pause: 60 seconds of silent gratitude.
Pride	Humility	Anonymous Service: Help someone without taking credit.
Bitterness	Forgiveness	Prayer for Enemies: Specifically name them in prayer.
Lust/Gluttony	Temperance	Fasting: Skip a meal or social media to reset.
Deceit	Truthfulness	Evening Examination: A 5-minute honesty audit.

Which of these ‘opposing habits’ do you need to lean into this week? Let’s encourage each other in the comments below.