Over the years, Caleb and I have tackled many house projects. Anything from scrapping wallpaper, removing popcorn ceiling texture, to tiling, and laying wood floors. But nothing really changes a room like a coat of fresh paint. Our current house, having been built back in the early 70’s, has a myriad of paint layers. Sometimes we get a glimpse of past colors when a wall chips or we take on a new house project.

Our biggest undertaking in our most recent history was a kitchen remodel. As the process began with drawings and design, we were informed that no more progress could be made if we did not first have a lead test on the old cabinets and paint. The test would provide us with the necessary feedback – showing us that even with fresh layers of paint there still could be something toxic lying beneath. Luckily for us, there was no lead found and the project was completed without a hiccup.

This experience prompted me to consider that sometimes in our lives we can be carrying stuff from the past, even things that go  way back to a different era or season, and while we’ve beautified and improved on the surface, there still could be something toxic lying beneath. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus made clear that’s it essential that we not only deal with the outward manifestation of sins such as stealing, adultery, and murder, but that we recognize the invisible sins like coveting, lust and unrighteous anger have the same deadly effects.

Unfortunately, glossing over and ignoring it doesn’t make it go away. For our own spiritual health and others around us, we’ve got to work at the removal of what doesn’t belong no matter the inconvenience or cost. The Holy Spirit is here to help us. He is here to shine light where we need to see clearly and bring power to change. Pray with me today from Psalm 51:10, “God, make a fresh start in me. Shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life”.