How can we prepare our hearts for God's work, inspired by Luke 22:11? A Guest Room for the King “ ‘The Teacher asks, “Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?” ’ ” (Luke 22:11) The disciples could not celebrate the Passover until that upper room was readied. In the same way, God’s work in and through us flourishes when our inner “guest room” is prepared for His presence. Clearing Out the Clutter • Confess and repent of known sin (Hebrews 12:1; Psalm 139:23-24) • Release hidden grudges, fears, and idols that crowd Christ out • Choose forgiveness quickly to keep spiritual space uncluttered Sanctifying the Space • Pursue purity: “If anyone cleanses himself… he will be a vessel for honor” (2 Timothy 2:21) • Draw near to God through humble submission: “Cleanse your hands… purify your hearts” (James 4:8) • Embrace holiness as the normal Christian life (1 Peter 1:15-16) Stocking the Room with Word and Worship • Feast on Scripture daily—hide it in the heart (Psalm 119:11) • Let Christ’s word “dwell… richly” through study, singing, and fellowship (Colossians 3:16) • Cultivate continual praise that shifts focus from self to Savior Walking in Obedient Readiness • Like the two disciples, act promptly on every directive (Luke 22:13) • Move from hearing to doing (James 1:22) • Keep His word, and enjoy the promised indwelling fellowship (John 14:23) Maintaining the Prepared Heart • Start each day by yielding control to Jesus • Practice quick confession and restoration throughout the day • Memorize and meditate on passages that expose and encourage • Meet regularly with believers for mutual sharpening • Serve others; an outward focus keeps spiritual rooms fresh and open • Live expectantly, remembering His knock and promise of intimate communion (Revelation 3:20) A swept, consecrated, Scripture-filled heart becomes a welcoming upper room where the Master delights to work, teach, and fellowship. |
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