Ideally I like to do a Spring and Fall cleaning around my home. A time to dig deep into the corners and recesses of my home and tidy them up. It doesn't always happen but that is the goal. A time twice a year to open up windows, remove and wash the jams and screens. I empty cupboards of pots and pans, dishes and pantry items and thoroughly scrub out any accumulated grim or crumbs. In the Fall I usually take this time to freshen my linens by washing extra blankets and bedding so that they are ready to put on beds when the nights turn crisp.
As important as it is to be good stewards of our homes and belongings by seeing to their physical upkeep, it is equally important to give diligence to its Spiritual upkeep.
Many years ago I found a blog post on cleaning house. I felt it was a very important reminder and so I took the time to write it in the back of my Bible. Unfortunately I did not make note of the author or blog where I found it and can no longer remember. If anyone recognizes this please let me know so that I can give proper credit.
Cleaning House
Every few months go through the house and examine it according to these Scriptures:
- Psalm 101:3
- 2 Corinthians 7:1
- Proverbs 3:33
- Philippians 4:8
- Deuteronomy 7:26
- 1 John 5:21
- Psalm 101:2
- Psalm 119:37
Clean out those things that are not pleasing to the Lord. It is very easy for worldly distractions to creep into our home. Look at:
* Books and magazines
* Art, personal pictures
* Videos and DVD's
* Music
* Toys
* Anything immodest or crude in speech, manner or suggestion
* Immodest clothing
* Miscellaneous things that the Lord might reveal to you.
(I would also add that you should examine your online and social media activities. Are they pleasing to the Lord?)
Replace items with things that would inspire and draw you, your family and others to God.
Strive to make your home a safe place that honors the Lord by carefully discerning and guarding the things you allow into it.
** The Right Questions to Ask **
The following questions are ones that I wrote down from a women's Bible study I attended and I think they go beautifully with the context of Biblical Housekeeping.
1. Will this strengthen my faith and help me love Jesus more?
2. Will this advance me in warfare against sin?
3. Will it help me be more resolved to pray?
4. Will it embolden my faith and help me to share the gospel with others?
5. Does this bring glory to God?
I hope this will be an encouragement to you as you think about doing your Fall cleaning. God bless you as you work in your homes, may all you do there bring glory to the Lord and your family closer to Him.
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