Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17
Vision Becomes Reality
It is hard to make old things new. This week, it has been difficult to concentrate on work as we focus on refreshing our home. After months of collecting paint samples, viewing carpet swatches, discussing possibilities, and finalizing decisions, hard-working laborers are making our vision a reality. Our living room and master bedroom are being transformed. And though the workers do not need my assistance to do their jobs, I cannot help wanting to watch the progress as “old things become new.”
And when I finally settled myself to focus and spend some time in God’s Word, my daily devotional took me to Isaiah 65:17. See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.”
Throw Out the Old and the Dirty
I am so glad God creates new things. Because creating new things means throwing out the old and dirty things. My old valances were very pretty with fabric that hung in draped semi-circles. They looked clean. But when I took them down, inches of dust hid between each crease—dirt tucked away out of sight but causing allergens to pervade the room without our knowledge. Behind each large piece of furniture we moved, the wall was dark with dust. The corners of the rooms that are usually hidden from view were black with grime.
Life Holds Spiritual Lessons
So often the things we do as part of our life routines have spiritual applications. We have hidden places in our lives that others never see. Sometimes we hardly see them ourselves, until the Holy Spirit opens our eyes to the dirt that has collected. He shines a light on those areas so we can dust them off or throw them out. We can become new by asking for forgiveness from God and cleansing ourselves through His Word.
God Renews Daily
And while my newly decorated rooms will become old again, and dirt and grime will collect until time dictates we again redecorate, we can be cleansed and renewed every day. God is continually transforming us to the image of Christ—if we are cooperating with His plan. We can be refreshed daily. His mercies are new every morning.