Day 4: Clearing Out the Old to Build the New

Before the wall could be rebuilt, the people had to clear away the debris and rubbish from the old, broken-down wall. In the same way, we cannot build something new for God’s glory on top of old mess, hurts, or unforgiveness. Clearing out the spiritual “rubbish” in our lives—old wounds, grudges, and habits that no longer serve us—is necessary for God to do a new work in us. Though it can be discouraging and hard work, removing what is expired or harmful makes room for God’s fresh blessings and purposes.

Ephesians 4:31-32 (ESV)
Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Reflection: What “old rubbish” in your heart or life do you need to clear out today so that God can build something new in you?