How One Good Step Leads to Another
Let’s talk about a fascinating idea that comes from an ancient verse: “You shall guard yourself from everything evil” (Deuteronomy 23:10). Rabbi Pinchas ben Yair, a wise teacher from long ago, explained that this isn’t just advice about avoiding trouble—it’s the first step on a whole ladder of becoming a better and more spiritual person.
The Torah and the Bible aren’t identical, but they’re connected. The Torah is made up of the first five books found in the Bible and is the main religious text for Judaism. The Christian Bible also includes these five books in the Old Testament, but adds many more books, plus the New Testament.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps, explained in plain language:
1. Torah – Learning the Right Way
First, it all starts with learning—gaining wisdom from the Torah, which is the main Jewish text. It’s like laying a solid foundation, or making sure you read the manual before starting something important.
2. Watchfulness – Being Careful
Once you know what’s right, you start to pay attention to your actions. “Watchfulness” means you’re on the lookout, making sure you don’t accidentally do wrong—like checking both ways before crossing the street.
3. Zeal – Getting Energized
Now, instead of just avoiding what’s wrong, you get excited about doing what’s right. “Zeal” is about having energy and enthusiasm—jumping out of bed because you’re eager to do good things.
4. Cleanliness – Keeping Your Actions Pure
“Cleanliness” in this sense means your actions aren’t just good on the outside, but you’re honest and sincere inside, too. It’s about trying not to be selfish or mean—even in small ways.
5. Separation – Drawing Healthy Boundaries
At this stage, you start to separate yourself from unhealthy influences or situations that might lead you astray. Think of it like choosing to hang out with friends who help you be your best self.
6. Purity – Pure Intentions
Now, you act with a pure heart—not just for praise or rewards, but because it’s truly the right thing. Your intentions are clean, and you mean what you do.
7. Piety – Going the Extra Mile
“Piety” means you don’t just do the minimum; you go above and beyond. You’re kind, generous, and thoughtful, even when you don’t have to be.
8. Humility – Staying Down to Earth
After all this, you don’t get a big head about your progress. “Humility” is remembering that there’s always more to learn, and being modest about your good deeds.
9. Fear of Sin – Being Respectful of Right and Wrong
You become very careful, not out of fear of getting caught, but out of respect for what’s right and wrong. You don’t want to hurt anyone or break the trust placed in you.
10. Holiness – A Special Level
“Holiness” is when good actions, good thoughts, and good intentions become a natural part of who you are. It’s like reaching a new level where living well feels easy and right.
11. The Holy Spirit – A Higher Inspiration
At this point, it’s believed you can reach a kind of special inspiration or understanding, a deeper connection to wisdom and goodness.
12. Revival of the Dead – Ultimate Transformation
Finally, all these steps together lead to the ultimate reward: a kind of spiritual revival or renewal, not just for the individual but for everyone. In short, it’s a step-by-step journey. You start with learning, stay mindful, get excited about doing good, keep yourself honest, and continue climbing. Each step makes the next one possible.
The message? Every little thing you do to improve yourself matters—and who knows how far you can climb if you keep taking one good step after another!
Minister A Francine Green, May 2026