What steps can we take to prepare our hearts as "a house for God"? Our Calling to Be God’s House “Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple, and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16) God intends your very heart to be His dwelling. The following steps walk us through preparing that “house” so His presence is welcomed and unhindered. Clearing Out the Debris: Repentance • Invite the Spirit to spotlight hidden clutter (Psalm 139:23-24) • Confess anything He reveals; He cleanses immediately (1 John 1:9) • Draw near without delay—He meets repentant hearts (James 4:8) Laying the Cornerstone: Faith in Christ • Rest every hope on the finished work of Jesus (Acts 4:11-12) • Remember He alone is the foundation that holds (Ephesians 2:20) • Trust that He now “dwells in your hearts through faith” (Ephesians 3:17) Sanitizing the Rooms: Pursuing Holiness • Take God’s call to be holy as non-negotiable (1 Peter 1:15-16) • Reject habits, media, and relationships that defile (2 Corinthians 7:1) • Choose daily decisions that reflect the character of your Resident Furnishing with the Word • Stock every “room” with Scripture (Psalm 119:11) • Let the Word dwell richly—teaching, correcting, and inspiring worship (Colossians 3:16) • Memorize key passages; they become spiritual furniture you’ll use constantly Inviting the Resident: Yielding to the Spirit • Ask for continual filling (Ephesians 5:18) • Walk in step, letting Him set the pace and direction (Galatians 5:25) • Expect His fruit to decorate the interior—love, joy, peace, and more Keeping the House in Order: Obedience and Love • Show love for Christ by keeping His Word (John 14:23) • Let obedience perfect God’s love within you (1 John 2:5) • Address any disobedience quickly—dust settles fast if ignored Protecting the Doorways: Guarding Minds and Hearts • Watch what you allow through eyes and ears (Proverbs 4:23) • Filter thoughts through Philippians 4:8 before they take residence • Shut portals that invite spiritual infestation—bitterness, envy, fear Hosting the Family: Fellowship and Service • Meet regularly with other believers for mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Serve practically; open doors of your life to others in need (Galatians 6:10) • Shared ministry keeps the house lively and full of kingdom activity Maintaining an Atmosphere of Worship and Gratitude • God is “enthroned on the praises” of His people (Psalm 22:3) • Keep praise and thanksgiving continual (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) • A grateful heart freshens every room, making it a place He delights to stay |
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