First, 'I am the Lord your God' (1-5). The phrase 'I am the Lord' occurs 47 times in Ch.18-26, as the basis of authority behind these laws. The Israelites came from an idolatrous Egypt and were headed for a wicked Canaan. But they must live as God's people by God's decrees and laws. We too are surrounded by sin and immorality. God's way is narrow and unpopular (Mt 7:14). But it is the way to true freedom and real life (5). To follow God's way requires a daily decision to keep in step with the Spirit (Gal 5:16,25). Second, unlawful sexual relations (6-30). The pagan nations lived in sexual immorality: incest, adultery (20), homosexuality (22), bestiality (23), and offering children to idols (21). From all these we must flee (1Co 6:18). God's law limits sexual relations to a husband and wife (Heb 13:4). We must beware of getting too physically close or private with a relative, friend or stranger. God calls us not to be impure or immoral, but to live a holy life (1Th 4:3-7).
Application: Lord, forgive my immoral, impure heart and actions. Help me to avoid and flee from immorality and offer and devote myself to you in mind, body and spirit.
One Word: Devoted to the Lord in body, mind and spirit