Run Through the Washer

As I sat in Sunday morning service, I couldn't help but begin to look at the 
miserable person I am... meaning, the person who is inadequate, the person
who has so many inner flaws, the person who feels she can't live up to
anything God would ask her to do.... and then, I was interrupted in thought
and taken immediately (in my thoughts) to an all too familiar place in my home...
THE LAUNDRY ROOM!


I began to see myself putting clothes in the washer, thinking this is a never ending
job (come on ladies, like the clothes needing clean never stop!)  As I put each piece
in, I checked for stains, some had them, some did not.  I checked the pockets 
for unwanted tissues and toys joining the soiled clothes.  When it was sorted and 
the washer was full, I added something... blue liquid, known as detergent.
And, then I understood.


My thoughts were stained, I need to wash them.
I needed the blue liquid, but not laundry detergent, instead I needed to pick
up the Word of God, and cleanse them with truth.  
"You shall know the truth and the truth will set you free." John 8:32


I began to weep.
I felt like it was a David moment in my life... a psalm pouring from my mind and heart through my lips.
Lord, WASH me of these ideas that don't align with your word.
Lord, CLEANSE me for I cannot do it on my own. 
Lord, whatever needs BLOTTED OUT... let it be so!


And then, I cried, " Create in me a pure heart, O God,  and renew a steadfast spirit within me" Psalm 51:10.

I began to confess my fears, my doubts, my feeling of inadequacy...
and one by one they went into the washing machine and I poured the detergent in
and left the service clean.


Maybe your heart isn't facing doubts, maybe its not even fears, but in all of our laundry baskets we have soiled clothes... some not stained, some stained or sour smelling... for some of us it is unconfessed sin and as a result we feel far from God,  somewhere under the dirty basket of clothes our joy of salvation has been misplaced,  our inner song has disappeared, the praise from our lips has silenced. ... as you do your physical laundry this week (Sheets, kids clothes, your clothes, etc).... may you have a God experience.  May it be a time to release, confess, and talk with your Abba Father.  Girlfriend, empty your laundry basket and let him wash you with his love and his peace.  Much love and blessings to each of you.  I am praying for you.


I would love to hear about your "Laundry Experience" email me your testimony at michelle@shestepsministry.com