Guide to Spiritual Spring Cleaning

   When we think of spring cleaning, we usually make a checklist of things to do. We also breakdown the list so that we don't get overwhelmed. We focus in on what is most needed, organize a plan or strategy and begin and complete tasks.

     Give a fresh start to a new season. You might agree that it gives you a wonderful feeling when you can enjoy the finished work. Below are some suggestions for spring cleaning for you to keep in mind this season. Share with friends and family. Food for Thought.

Dust off your Bible (Psalm 119:168) "I obey your precepts and your statutes, for all my ways are known to you."  This is a spring cleaning of the soul including thoughtful and reflective meditation of God's Word. Many treat bible reading as a checklist, as if purchasing food items at the grocery store. It's time to really saturate your thirsty soul with God's Word. Appreciate the time to commune with Him about your life.

Wipe Your Eyes (Psalm 30:5) "weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." There is a time for grieving, whether it is the loss of a loved one, relationship, job, or good health. At some point, the eternal perspective must take place in your heart. Perhaps it's time to wipe your eyes and move in the Holy Spirit for a refreshing of faith in your loving God. Keep in mind that God is not moved by your tears, but by your faith in Him. 

Vacuum up the influences of the world (1John 2:15)"Do not love the world or  anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them."

 The world's influence is not always detected right away. When you realize how worldliness has affected your thoughts about God, his people, and your spiritual walk, stop. Evaluate yourself and actions, then, chart a new course. Get rid of everything that clutters your heart from being sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading.  Truly repent .Then let go and let God.

Shampoo away the build-up of an unforgiving attitude (Luke 11:4)Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us."After a deep hurt from a family member, friend, stranger, or even sometime church, there is a season of winter(coldness) in having an unforgiving heart. It's difficult to continue thriving. You hold a grudge, but what you should do is was away unforgiveness in the living stream of Christ's forgiveness for you. Rinse all that negativity out. 

Wax and Buff your time in prayer. (Luke 18:1)"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up." Has your prayer-life grown dull? It may be time to wax and buff it up. Try using the Psalms. Maybe a prayer partner to help keep you on course. Write in a prayer journal, it can put a new shine and finish to your intercessory time for the unsaved as well as fellow believers. You may be surprised .

Reseal your faith commitment to God. (1Thess. 5:8)" Let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet." A renewing of relationship with God can bring a fresh joy and hope that you've missed. Find a quiet place to reflect on Christ and how the Spirit is leading you toward new direction. Let faith, not fear be your guide. As a believer, stand guard over your thoughts. If we get lazy, then our minds can become lax and over time be less able to decipher the Lord's voice. Deal with wandering thoughts at the moment you recognize them. Plead the blood.

Clean up your motives (1Corin. 4:5)" He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose motives of the  heart."What are the motives to service in church? Do you long for man's appreciation or reward? Check your motives. Clean up so you live a guilt-free life. Every stain of impure motive is seen by God and he discipline's those he loves to keep them on the right path.

Spring has sprung, with fresh air, bright sunny days, and long breezy nights. Those who long for a new start in their spiritual walk are unafraid of what it may take. Take the time to re-examine yourself. Give of your best to the Master. Your heavenly Father longs for you to grow spiritual fruit in the abundance of Grace that He has granted you.

Excerpts from: Guide to Spiritual Spring Cleaning by Crystal McDowell

Transposed by : Prophetess Dr. Teloria Williams