January 9th | Dirty Laundry

Hey friends! Today's devotion is all about that thrilling spiritual wardrobe refresh Paul talks about in Colossians 3—let's call it "Laundry Day."

We all know the feeling: that mountain of dirty laundry staring you down (we've all got that overflowing basket situation going on, right?). 😂

Here's a classic "help me, Lord" moment we can all relate to:

Just like we can figuratively drown in our laundry pile, we can also be taken under by the sin in our lives.

But here's the exciting truth: in Christ, we've been given the ultimate laundry upgrade! Paul doesn't shy away from naming those old, grimy "garments"—sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, greed, anger, rage, malice, slander, filthy language, lying... the whole list!

Why list them out so clearly? Because, as N.T. Wright so wisely says: “It is far easier to drift into a sin which one does not know by name than consciously to choose one whose very title should be repugnant to a Christian.” Naming them is like shining a spotlight on that pile so we can grab it, toss it in the wash (or better yet, the spiritual trash bin!) and step into something fresh and fabulous.

And then the best part—slipping into the clean, crisp new outfit! This is our new reality! We've already taken off the old self with its dirty habits (thanks to Jesus!), and now, empowered by the Holy Spirit, we get to make that deliberate, happy choice every day to live out our brand-new identity in Christ.

We redefine who we are—not by the old stains and rips, but by discarding those depraved habits and putting on the righteousness, peace, and joy He's prepared for us. It's like finally conquering the laundry mountain and breathing in that fresh, clean-laundry smell! 🙌

So today, celebrate the freedom! Pick one of those "old garments" you're excited to leave in the hamper for good, thank Jesus for the strength to toss it, and step into your new outfit with a big smile.

You've got this—because He's got you!