CLEARING THE LAND

Posted bySpiritual WanderingsPosted inUncategorized

We bought our new-to-us home in Lufkin, Texas, one year ago. Our home had been the dream house of a couple who stayed a few years and then moved on because of family concerns. At least, that’s our understanding. The subsequent owners did not treat the property with tender love and care. Our home is on a lot, and we own the lot next to it. The property had all kinds of accumulated debris. A handyman cleared out much “stuff” over the next few months as we were moving in. The move took several months, which I’ve written about in earlier blogs. Refer to Take a Load to Lufkin, July 23, 2022. Over the past few weeks, a crew took down a dead tree, and some huge limbs caught high in the branches. Then a stump grinder took out about 38 stumps. The yard looked like a Stump Farm.

Clearing a plot of land of dead trees, stumps, and debris can be daunting, but preparing the land for new growth is necessary. Similarly, cleaning our lives for the habitation of God can be challenging but rewarding. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Recognize the need for cleaning: Just as a plot of land cannot be used for new growth until it is cleared of dead trees, stumps, and debris, our lives cannot be used for God’s purposes until we clear out the clutter and debris that has accumulated over time.

2. Identify the obstacles: In clearing a plot of land, it is important to identify the obstacles that are preventing new growth. Similarly, in cleaning our lives, we need to identify things hindering our spiritual growth, such as sin, negative attitudes, and unhealthy relationships.

3. Take action: Once the obstacles have been identified, it is time to take action. This may involve seeking forgiveness, letting go of unhealthy relationships, or making changes to our daily habits and routines.

4. Invite God in. Just as new growth cannot happen on a plot of land without the presence of sunlight and water, our lives cannot be fully cleansed without the presence of God. Invite Him in to guide and direct the cleaning process.

5. Enjoy the new growth: Just as a cleared plot of land can be used for new growth and productivity, a cleaned life can be used for God’s purposes and bring joy and fulfillment. Enjoy the new growth and blessings that come from a clean and purified life.

Grace, Peace, and new growth.

Published by Spiritual Wanderings

Paul Potter is Author/Teacher for Eagles Rest Ministry. Tanya, his wife, and Paul live in Lufkin, Texas. He was the Founding Director, School of Ministry, Church Alive University, Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is an ordained minister. As a retired, tenured University Professor, he has served as faculty for the University of North Texas, Stephen F. Austin State University, Xavier University, University of Oklahoma, Angelo State University, and Hardin-Simmons University. He has preached in churches in Texas, Alaska, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Ohio, Kentucky, and pastor’s conferences in Ohio and Alaska. His first major job out of the Air Force was broadcasting as an announcer, journalist, director, and producer in radio and TV. He was producer and announcer of nationally syndicated The Baptist Hour, Master Control, and other radio programs.

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