Every year about this time, most of us get the urge to do some Spring Cleaning. But I have to admit my desire, to clean right now, is very small. I need some motivation. So I have to ask myself, why do I need to do Spring cleaning in the first place? The answer is obvious, because my house is dirty. So I looked up the definition of clean – free from dirt or filth, unsoiled, unstained, complete, perfect, clean sweep, fresh start.
Now that I have a reason for cleaning my house, I need a plan of action. One of the simplest ideas I have ever heard for cleaning is to start at your front door. As you enter your house, start with the room to your left and work, room by room until you’ve accomplished each of your cleaning goals. The intensity of the cleaning is entirely up to you. Be careful to set realistic goals for yourself; then begin. You might want to ask your friends for some of their cleaning tips.
As I was thinking about cleaning my house, the Lord brought to mind, the question, when was the last time I did some spring cleaning of my heart? It’s always easier to look on the outside. Making sure we look presentable, with the current fashion, make-up, and hair style, which in itself is not a bad thing as long as it’s not our focus; but how often we miss looking at the inside. If you recall, that’s where the leaders in Jesus’ day got into trouble. They were so concerned about external issues that they missed what truly mattered. (Matthew 15:1-20) Have you?
We are reminded in Jeremiah 17:7-10, “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve.” And in Proverbs 4:23 it says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life,” or as another translation puts it, “Above all else, guard your heart, for it affects everything you do.”
God has given us a heart to know Him; to have a personal relationship with Him through His Son, Jesus. “Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:12
As His children He wants us to develop a heart that knows Him. In Jeremiah 9:23-24 it says, “This is what the LORD says: ‘Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight.’ ” Chuck Swindoll gives great insight about these verses, “I am more convinced than ever that life’s major pursuit is not in knowing self . . . but in knowing God. Today make it your aim. Consciously think, ‘Lord, use these few quiet moments to enhance my knowledge of You. Take first place in my heart. Reveal Yourself to me.” (Quote taken from, The Living Insights Study Bible)
Hebrews 4:12-13 says, “The word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joint and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to who we must give account.” Once again, I share the wisdom of Chuck Swindoll. “Alive. Active. Penetrating. Powerful. Unlike anything else ever written, Scripture touches hearts and changes lives. Today, as always, we need God’s touch. Painful and deep though it may be, His surgery inevitably benefits us. May His Spirit prepare our hearts for the probing ministry of this double-edged sword.” (quote taken from, The Living Insights Study Bible)
Just as you needed a plan for Spring cleaning your home, you need a plan for Spring cleaning your heart. You need to take an honest look at your heart. Take a good inventory. Ask God to reveal any issue in your heart that hinders your relationship with Him. Colossians 3:1-17 gives guidance for living a life that is free from hindrances.
If you’re not in the habit or have gotten out of the habit of spending time with God daily, begin now. Don’t neglect getting to know the One who made you and gave His life for you. Find a place in your house where it’s quiet. The bathroom with the fan on can be a great place. In warm weather I love to go outside on our deck. Be creative. Ask God to show you a place that you can meet with Him alone and free from distractions. If you’re new at this, or just need a “fresh start”, begin by reading a Psalm each day, preferably in the morning. Read it out loud. It will help you to be less distracted. As you read, ask the Lord to speak to your heart and He will. The amount of time you spend, is between you and the Lord.
“Those who know Your name will trust in You,
for You, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek You.” ‘
Psalm 9:10
