Wednesday, August 26, 2020
One thing we have all done a lot more this year than ever before is to clean - our hands, our doorknobs, our cabinets, our refrigerator handles, our homes, everything. But what about our spirits? Our insides are in need of a good cleaning too - our heart, mind, and spirit. They have become cluttered with junk that we have been pouring in and they have become dirty from the many thoughts and feelings this crazy year has provoked. It is time to clean it out.
A CLEAN SPIRIT by Donna Lindquist
Consider the process of cleaning out a closet or storage room- ugh, right. Then think of that contrasting feeling of amazing relief when the room is finally clean and organized- wow! So, what does that have to do with your soul? Well, we all have stuff – you know - stored up junk – and sooner or later…we have to clean it OUT or...get lost in the chaos. So, just simply ask God to help you make a change, and He will!
Start small and tackle it one step at a time. Recharge your focus, energy, and time. It is intentional, personal, but will be rewarding. So, where do we begin:
1st- Focus your mind.
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:2
When we think about God and not on things of the world, it brings peace. The peace of God is life-changing and brings freedom from anxiety and worry while allowing God to move in your life. Thinking about God shifts your focus and your priorities and habits begin to realign with God’s plan.
2nd- Let go of all that excess stuff.
Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. Philippians 3:13
We all have those thoughts, objects or people that drains our spirit. Some may have childhood hurts, broken relationships, bitterness, anger, unforgiveness. The list is enormous and endless…but these leave our soul wounded and bleeding. But good news - we do not have to carry these, because Jesus Christ to heal our brokenness, and make us new! How amazing is God’s grace! God will take all those pieces and create a new masterpiece beyond what you can even ask or imagine.
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
To increase your energy, and refuel your depleted spirit, you must make room for God. Make peace with your past and put God first place in your life. He will give you the energy and determination to live life to the full. (2 Corinthians 5:17) All those scattered thoughts or exhausted mental anguish replaced by a clean spirit and renewed peace!
3rd - Maximize your time.
We all have the same amount of time - the difference – how we spend it! So, start with your calendar. Think about the next 90 days – list your priorities. Remember to include God, family time, friends, spouse, work, exercise, recreation. This is your life choices, so find pleasure and satisfaction in your day, and simply rest in God.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord and not for men. Colossians 3:23”
Just like that closet, you must have a regular clean out. Some new items go in ---the old taken out!
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. Ecclesiastes 3:1
The goal - a healthy balance! Realizing that your life is just a vapor in the wind, and all that really matters is your relationship with God.
Remember each season will pass. (Ecclesiastes 3:6) God wants to use each season to teach and equip you for the days ahead, to deepen relationships, gain knowledge, expand influence, or enhance your spiritual gift.
God is continually working through joyous events, like new babies, weddings, or family reunions. Through uncertain times, like natural disasters, tragedies, or pandemics. Because He loves YOU!
But just as it is written, THINGS WHICH EYE HAS NOT SEEN AND EAR HAS NOT HEARD, AND which HAVE NOT ENTERED THE HEART OF MAN, ALL THAT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIM. 1 Corinthians 2:9
