Ephesians 4:22-24 - Getting Dressed

Scripture

Ephesians 4:22-24 - you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness and truth.(Emphasis mine)

Observation

Every day you get dressed both physically and spiritually.  If you are like me, you take time to pick an outfit that best expresses how you feel for the day. Comfy clothes say that I'm a little tired and refuse to entertain you with my apparel.  A skirt implies that I have a little extra spunk in my step and am feeling carefree today. I'm sure men think less about such things, but I know I am not the only woman out there that selects here clothing based on how she feels.

But what about spiritual clothing?  Do you get dressed spiritually based on how you feel?  I do sometimes. If I am feeling forgotten or neglected, I dress in a pouty "no one loves me" spirit.  If  I am feeling discouraged, I put on the ever-ready whiney/critical garment.

However, we are called to put on a new spiritual self each day.  One that was created in the righteousness, holiness, and truth of God. I can just imagine God sewing my spiritual garment right now.  Layering color after beautiful color, interweaving righteousness and holiness, and hemming it all in with truth.  All the while He is smiling, knowing that when I put this hand-crafted garment on I will be the bell of the ball.   Reminds me of Cinderella.  The torn rags I used to wear as a slave to sin, is beautifully transformed into an evening gown that makes those around me stop and stare.

Hmm, what to wear?  Yes, I think it's an evening gown kind of day!

Application

I have to get in the word each morning.  My mind needs to be renewed in Christ.  Once my mind has been set on His righteousness, holiness, and truth, I can choose to wear it.

Prayer

Father, You have taken the tattered fabric of my life and woven it into a beautiful masterpiece.  In a world where only a size 0 is considered skinny, and face lifts punch your card for the fountain of youth, You have given me a new fountain, one that never runs dry.  I choose today to send out my roots to Your living water (Psalm 1:3).  Renew a steadfast spirit within me (Psalm 51:10).  Dress me in Your humility and righteousness, and tie kindness and truth around my neck (Proverbs 3:3).  With all my heart, I thank You for making me this beautiful garment and I hope wearing it today brings a smile to Your face.