A Refreshed Spiritual Focus
Tuesday, August 8
A Refreshed Spiritual Focus
Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. Romans 5:8
Spring cleaning is something most people do each year to give their homes a deep cleaning. Even though we might clean on a regular basis, there are times when we need to go… a little deeper. We realize that what appeared to be clean on the surface was, in all actuality, quite filthy.
The same thing can happen spiritually. As we go about our daily lives, there are things that can build up over time. Even if we regularly worship, pray, and read our Bible, the different pressures and cares of this world can quietly accumulate, and end up consuming our lives. Without even realizing it, we can lose our peace, our joy, and our passion for the things of God. Our service to God, which used to fill us with life and excitement, becomes a duty that we must fulfill.
Fasting is the deep cleaning that helps us take our minds off the things of this world and instead have a refreshed focus on the things of the Spirit. It is an incredibly effective way to get into the nooks and crannies of our souls and bring all those dusty old habits, broken mindsets, and rusty attitudes out into the light of God’s truth. In fasting and prayer, our service to God returns to something we want to do rather than something we have to do.
As you pray and fast today, ask God to show you any areas where you could use a refreshed spiritual focus. Like David in Psalm 51:10-12, pray that God will cleanse your heart, renew your spirit, and restore the joy of your salvation. Pray with confidence, knowing that He wants to fill you with His life and peace.
Prayer for today: Lord, at times I grow tired and lukewarm in my love and service for You. Forgive me for allowing the distractions of the world to take my focus off You. Please renew the joy of my salvation and give me a fresh passion for You. I recognize that if I am to experience a breakthrough this year, I must first take care of the hindrances. Thank You that You never grow weary, and that Your passion for me is always secure. Amen.