Sweat the Small Stuff

Subtle Sins:

     But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or any kind of impurity, or greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
     For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person-such a man is an idolater-has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them....
     Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
     Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.
     Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. SIng and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Scripture: Ephesians 5:3-7, 15-20

Defining Moments:

     Ever tried cleaning up a room that was totally trashed? When the dresser drawers won't shut and the bed disguises an unseen colony of clothes and clutter--when the last shoe has finally dropped and you've been surrounded by the law of gravity--it's time to do the big stuff first. The glaring things. The obvious things. Like making your bed. Folding up your sweaters. Returning all the plates, forks, and glasses to the kitchen.
     But underneath the chief culprits lies a second layer of vandals. Dust. Corners. Baseboards. Pockets of disarray you didn't notice before, but now-with all the major problems taken care of-they cry out for correction. On and on it goes. The light exposes another. You fix, tinker, and straighten. You want to be clean.
     As a growing Christian, you need to stay constantly open to the white glove of God's Word-not to keep you endlessly frustrated with your faults, but to keep unseen sins from becoming an all day mess. What's under the rug can be more of a problem than you think.

Next Up:

     Becoming a Christian doesn't automatically eliminate the bad habits you've formed over the years. But it does give you power to overcome them, one try at a time.

You may have to go out looking for the biggies. But the littlest sins can cause you the most trouble.

     " The light Jesus brings helps us to see ourselves more clearly and not to be fooled by what is hidden inside."
     -James Houston