Washing my face nightly has always been the favorite part of my “getting ready for bed” routine.
Cleansing my skin of the day’s dirt, sweat, and grime, I feel instantly refreshed, renewed, and clean. No matter where I am or how tired I am, I never omit washing my face. If I skip this important step of my routine, I feel dirty, and my day feels incomplete.
My heart, too, requires daily washing. I must ask God for forgiveness for the day’s mistakes, grumblings, and negative attitudes. Whether it be harboring bitterness toward a coworker who let me down, losing my temper with another driver on the way home from work, or lashing out in impatience toward one of my sweet pups, I frequently fail to live up to the standard of godliness I strive for as a follower of Christ. Fortunately, as I present myself to God with a repentant heart, His grace meets me where I am and cleanses me, allowing me to live renewed through Him.
Like washing my face, asking God to cleanse my heart is now a fundamental part of my nighttime routine. I echo King David’s words when he says, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalms 51:10 NIV). I enjoy the cleansing power of God’s forgiveness and grace when I pray this.
Turn to God daily with a repentant heart to enjoy the deep cleansing only His grace can provide.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay and Pezibear.)
(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)
Emily Marszalek enjoys the simple pleasures in life in the Pacific Northwest with her husband Nick and their two Goldendoodles, Charlie and Lucy. She loves jigsaw puzzles, animals, rock music, and all flavors of birthday cake.