Becoming Clean – Jennifer Woodley “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10 (NRSV)
David, known as ‘a man after God’s own heart’, was still beset by an unclean heart. In a moment of weakness, David chose to lay claim to his own life and had an illegitimate affair with Bathsheba.
When we have a clean heart, God will be our constant source – everything we do and say will be initiated by Him. In the living out of our life we like to have a plan. Plans are good, but not at the expense of omitting God and His purposes for our life. The righteous live by faith, but the unrighteous plough ahead, independent of God, organising their life and the daily details within.
Having a clean heart however, means living by faith, not by a detailed plan. Faith is happy to step out, not knowing where it is going as long as it knows the One who is going along. Faith is happy allowing the Spirit to be in control, rather than take control.
Having a clean heart means removing the dross from our lives. We must be rid of the negative influences that tarnish a life that desires to be pure and bring pleasure to God. What spoils the flow of God’s grace and blessing? What hinders us from walking in faith? We will only move ahead into holiness by losing what holds us back. God’s Spirit is the refiner of our soul, so ask Him what impurities in our life grieve God. The dross must be removed until we reflect the glory of our Heavenly Father.
Jennifer is an Australian freelance writer who enjoys encouraging others on their journey with Jesus through writing and mentoring. Contact |