Cleaning Out

Those who use the things of the world should not become attached to them. For this world as we know it will soon pass away.

1 Corinthians 7:31

“Those who use the things of the world.” Hmm . . . that would be sweet you and me! God advises us through Paul’s pen not to become attached to the things of the world.

God’s Word inspires and motivates me to apply His truths to every area of life, including my daily household duties. By now you’ve probably caught on that I am very sentimental, so sometimes I have a hard time spring cleaning! We do not have an attic, basement, or garage in our home, but I am not complaining. The lack of storage space has helped me become less attached to the things of the world. I am attached enough, all right, but God keeps cleaning me out, and change is happening!

Every time I read in Scripture about the brevity of life, I am personally encouraged to remove things from my home that I am not using and that would help someone else. Sometimes, even though it is hard, I try to remove things that are really hard to give away. This discipline adds oil to my tight grip. I think the only thing I have ever really missed is a red “prairie” dress with a fun, fancy ruffle on the bottom!

I smile because God sees this futile tendency to concern myself with the things of this world, and He lovingly reminds me not to worry about whether I will have enough clothes to wear. And He does not want me to worry about which of those clothes to wear either! When I spend unnecessary time letting earthly things occupy my thoughts, I’m thankful that God’s Word gently steers my mind and heart back to Him. In Him I can rest assured that my cares and I are in the best hands possible.

Let’s tell the Lord now that we want our hearts to attach to His ways, not to things that will not last. Then let’s ask Him for gentle reminders today to help keep our focus and priorities in line with His. (I think I’ll go and get rid of one earthly pile right now!)