Keeping my heart clean

Isaiah 1, Isaiah 2, Isaiah 3; Titus 3

Scripture:
Isaiah 1:18 "Come now, let us reason together,"
says the LORD.
"Though your sins are like scarlet,
they shall be as white as snow;
though they are red as crimson,
they shall be like wool.

Titus 3:1 Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, ²to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.

Observation:
I am reminded today of the incredible price Jesus paid to fulfill Isaiah 1:18. He gave His life in exchange for my freedom and righteousness. No work on my behalf could ever pay for the penalty of my sin. I am called to live out of reverence for what He has done. I must never allow myself to take the grace of God for granted. In Titus I am reminded to live with the qualities of submission to authorities over me, to live a lifestyle of obedience, to do whatever is good, to refrain from gossip and to live in peace and humility.

Application:
Titus 3 challenges me to guard my heart. As I read this passage I reflected on one of my mentors, Pastor Wayne. He is a man that walks in humility and always puts others first. His speech always encourages one to dream bigger and to live for Jesus Christ. I must guard myself from falling into the trap of the big church mentality. The showmanship and all the glits and glamor. It is so easy to miss the mark and to live for oneself and to appease one's insecurities. My identity is not found in those around me, yes affirmation is a good thing, but ultimately my identity comes for the Lord. I must continue to guard my heart fro ulterior motives, gossip, anger, impure thoughts and most of all selfishness.

Prayer:
Father thank You for all You are doing in my life and for all the blessings. I pray today for a pure heart and for the washing of the Holy Spirit. Renew my mind and heart, make me clean. Forgive my pride and arrogance, for they oppose and resist You. There is nothing good in my flesh. I am righteous because of You. Thank You for wisdom today, discernment and humility to lead today. Help me to do the things that please You and point others to You. I pray for my team and ask You to bless them and to guide them in their lives. Bless my pastors today and refresh them. I pray for our church and ask You to bless every member. Raise up Your people in these tough economical times. I pray for my friend Josh and his family and ask You to bless and make the path smooth. Bless the band today too and continue t mold and shape their hearts. Thank You for my wife and for the incredible partner she is. Bless her and refresh her today by Your spirit. Give her the songs of heaven and anoint her to lead Your people. Thank You for another day, may I use it ti serve You, Amen.