CLEAN
Carey Madding
Today's Scripture: “For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.” Revelation 3:17, ESV
Theme: Earthly prosperity cannot solve spiritual poverty.
THE PROBLEM WITH SELF
We’re often told not to be self-righteous, judgmental, and proud. Yet if we obey most of what God says, it becomes easy to look down on others who are not living for Him. Or not living the way we think they should live. We forget that the very fact of our salvation and the power that enables us to obey God starts with the Spirit. There is nothing that we can do to save or change ourselves.
NEW CLOTHES
When we see ourselves as “okay” or even better than that, we basically are wearing the “emperor's new clothes”—which were, in fact, no clothes at all, but a huge delusion. In truth, we have nothing if not covered by the blood of Christ. Jesus alone gives us new garments which make us presentable to enter the Kingdom. His clothes are rich and elegant, fit for the Wedding Feast of the Lamb.
You may not think of yourself as self-righteous, but each time you rely on your own might, mind, or effort, you neglect to acknowledge your need for God. Conversely, every time you worry and fret over how you are going to solve a problem or pay a bill, you neglect to give thanks to God for being your Provider, Healer, and Way Maker.
Make It Personal: God does not want us to think of ourselves only as in the song lyric: “such a worm as I.” He heals and changes us, making us new and holy creations. However, if you have never realized how pitiful your efforts and how unholy your innermost being without God, then you are deceiving yourself. Take a look. Thank God for transforming you and for your new clothes.
Pray: Lord God, I recognize my unworthiness, but I also know that Jesus has covered me with His blood and cleansed me from my sin. I thank You for robes that are whiter than snow. Help me remember that everything good in me comes from You. Help me to clothe myself with the Fruit of the Spirit and a transformed mind. In Your Name I pray. Amen.
Read: Ephesians 4:22–24; Galatians 3:26-27; Revelation 7:9-10; 1 John 1:7
Weekly Memory Verse: “So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.” Revelation 3:16, ESV