Spring officially made its entrance about four weeks ago.  The effects of the long, harsh winter is but a memory now as we look forward to warm days filled with sunshine.   April showers that bring May flowers, and eventually all the pleasures of summer are all within our view!  Before we can enjoy the season that is now upon us, we have some work to do in order to see it manifested to its fullest potential.

Whether the environment is inside or outside, when Spring arrives it’s in our best interest to do some Spring cleaning.   Throughout the winter various debris and dust collects in and around your property.   As the weather breaks and consistently improves it’s now time to do what I call that “deep cleaning” to get rid of all the unsightly “mess”.  Oftentimes we’re not even aware of how badly the deep cleaning is needed until we dive into the process.  Could we continue to survive without it, we most certainly could.  But why just survive when we’re meant to thrive!

Such is the same scenario in your spiritual life.  We go throughout our lives meeting daily challenges and struggles that oftentimes catch us off guard.  Left unattended or properly dealt with they begin to accumulate and settle just like dust, debris, and all sorts of undesirable residue that collects in and around our property.  Our heavenly Father never leaves us without a solution to rid ourselves of these nuisances. 

The Word of God emphasizes the need for this deep cleaning for the spirit man.  Psalm 51 in its entirety are words from the heart of David whose heart is crying out to God to be cleansed so that he will not be found disconnected from His presence.  I John 1: 9 stresses the importance of acknowledging and confessing our uncleanness.  “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”.  Just as our lawns and gardens need to be rid of anything that can prohibit its natural growth and beauty, likewise our spirits must be taken care of in the same manner.  

Hebrews 12: 1 states it this way in the New English Standard translation “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, we must get rid of every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and run with endurance the race set out for us”.  We’re in this race for life and ultimately life eternal, therefore in order to run and run well with the energy for endurance we must rid ourselves of ANYTHING that can possibly be a hindrance.

How can we achieve this “deep cleaning” that we all are in need of?

1. First, acknowledge the need for deep cleaning.
2. Do a self-inspection to determine any and all areas that need attention.
3. Ask God to remove anything that could potentially hinder your spiritual growth and relationship with Him.
4. Look for God to answer and follow His instructions to the letter
5. Take advantage of any opportunity that will provide you with tools to enhance your walk with the Lord.

I personally invite you to join us for the 8^th Annual Women’s Retreat hosted by Esther’s Academy.  It will be held in Columbus, Ohio May 1 – 3.  The Retreat will be a time of renewal, restoration, and revival. 

This weekend is one of those unique opportunities being offered for that special deep cleaning and spiritual preparation specifically appointed by God with you in mind!  Don’t miss “Beyond The Gates” (Your New Horizon).  For complete details visit www.doitgodsway.com/ea