Good With the Bleach

Little known Allison facts...I am good with bleach. I like my whites to be white so sometimes I get a bit bleach happy. Apparently not all of my clothes are big fans of the bleach. Just the other day I found a lone sock who had gone a.w.a.l. from his designated laundry basket and had stealthily hidden amongst my jeans. The sock did get clean, but, needless to say, when I refer to that particular sock I have to use air quotes on the word "white". I know you've been there.

That cranky little "white" sock came to mind one day when I thought about the grace full forgiveness of our loving Father. 1 John 1:9 says, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (NASB) "All" unrighteousness, really? I know it has to be true because God's Word says it, but sometimes I feel like the semi-white sock. I know I'm clean, but still stained, dingy, and at least vaguely resembling the world. However, the Scripture is clear that God not only cleanses us, but He makes us righteous. Why? Isaiah tells us it is for God's own sake and for His purpose that we are forgiven. Isaiah 43:25,"I, even I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake, And I will not remember your sins." Isaiah 48:11, "For My own sake, for My own sake, I will act; For how can My name be profaned? And My glory I will not give to another.

He desires to be glorified by us more than He desires to be mad at us. Have you ever been in a fuss with a friend or family member that you just wanted over so you could get back to enjoying the relationship? We move more quickly to repentance, apologies, forgiveness, and restoration when the relationship is valuable. He values His children and desires our unhindered worship. He pours out not just forgiveness, but also blessing and mercy and grace not just for cleanness, but for something new, pure, and bright, shiny white. What great love is this.

Praise God! He is good with the bleach.