Spring Cleaning

Here it is the merry month of May, the last month of spring! If you are like me, I may have put off my spring cleaning until the last of the season. Spring is fresh and with it brings renewal to our world. It sparks motivation in many to clean out stored "stuff" that is no longer needed, clean the cobwebs and dust from the corners, buff the floors, and shine up the windows in one's home.

"Mental spring cleaning" is the clearing out, cleansing, and renewal of the mind. Getting rid of hurtful memories, unforgiveness, negative thoughts, and impurities one might be storing. Removing the clutter of negative thoughts to leave plenty of room for positive, productive thinking, and a clear, renewed mind is just what you need to feel refreshed. "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things" (Phil. 4:8)

Here are some simple decluttering or cleansing steps to renew and refresh your mind:

*Forgive your self for any judgment or error you might have made in the past.

*Free yourself to do better now and move forward looking upward.

*Forgive others for any hurtful actions, intentional or unintentional - free them to do better also.

*Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts, words, actions, and deeds to line up with God's will.

*Commit to be more like Jesus each day.

*Make a point to be in the Word each day to make sure your mind stays focused on truth.

*Spend time with the Father each day in prayer and praising Him.

As you clean out and reorganize, allow the peace and harmony to replace your clutter; then let it spread out to family, community, and beyond. So get to cleaning - clearing out - cleaning up - decluttering your mind. Then your mind, body, and soul will be cleansed and ready to receive what the Lord has for you. You need to make room for His blessings!

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will" (Romans 12:2).

Father, God, we thank you for Your provisions that allow us to renew our minds and to focus on You. May we accept Your blessings that You pour upon us with fresh, clear minds. May we continue to grow into the image of Your one and only Son, Jesus. We love You, We praise and honor You. In Jesus' Mighty Name, Amen.