I am being so blessed by the lukewarm tests. Jesus is opening my heart to discover places that need cleaning out. I am so grateful that He loves us enough to clean us out rather than throw us away. What about you? Are you feeling cleansed and refreshed? Theses tests are never meant to condemn us; they are meant to grow our hearts closer to Jesus. Sometimes a good cleaning hurts, but is there anything better than knowing Jesus loves us enough to wipe away our dirt and wash us until we are as white as snow??
Lukewarm test #3 deals with status. Where is our focus? Do we want worldly status or Jesus status? Which one drives our day?
It is so easy to say we want Jesus status and be done. However, let's dig deeper and discover where our hearts truly are. Have no fear, if worldly status takes precedent Jesus will lovingly guide you to gaze upon Him instead. All we have to do is ask.
Hebrews 13:5 - Your life should be free from the love of money. Be satisfied with what you have, for He Himself has said, I will never leave you or forsake you.
Are we satisfied with what we have or are we always on the hunt for the latest and greatest? Do we need a bigger home, a newer car, this season's clothes, etc.? Does our worth come from looking good materially? Or, are we thankful and content with what we have?
Matthew 19:21 - "If you want to be perfect," Jesus said to him, "go, sell your belongings and give to the poor, and you will have treasures in heaven. Then come, follow Me."
If Jesus walked into our home and handed us a top ten list of our heart's treasures, would He be in all of them? Or would material items and pleasing ourselves take precedent? Jesus doesn't expect us to sell everything. What He wants is for us to put Him above all material possessions. Are we helping and loving on those less fortunate than we are? Or are we storing up our riches to buy more stuff?
Romans 12:2 - Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
Are our hearts complacent towards the world and it's views or do we adhere to what Jesus's truths are? Do we justify things we watch, read, and say in order to make it ok even when we know that if Jesus walked in and saw us we would be embarrassed? Do we use discernment and make sure things line up with the Word of God?
Phew! That is a lot to consider but so worth it. I pray that this test will clear our hearts of mindsets that don't honor Jesus so that He can fill us to the brim and beyond with Himself.
Be blessed, sweet friend, and press on with determination and courage-
xoxo
