Joy: 37-Day DevotionalSample

Imagine a large room, beautifully decorated and spotless. A King makes His home in this room and is pleased with the perfection of His surroundings. Around the perimeter of the room are a number of doors. Beyond the doors are dirt, debris, and pollutants that would defile this space if the doors were opened. You are called to be the doorkeeper to this room.

This picture illustrates the life of every believer as the temple of the living God (2 Corinthians 6:16). God is delighted to take up residence within us and to become the Lord and Master of our dwelling. He forgives our sins and makes us righteous by the blood of Christ, transforming us into a holy and royal dwelling place. 

This Scripture encourages us to remember God’s promises—that we are His children and He dwells within us. But it also demonstrates our active partnership with Him as it challenges us to take action: Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit… We partner with God by serving as doorkeepers, carefully monitoring what we allow into His temple.

Consider the kinds of things that contaminate the physical body—unhealthy food, lack of exercise, poor sleep habits, and lack of Sabbath rest. Consider the kinds of things that contaminate the spirit—media, unhealthy relationships, unforgiveness, and unchecked thoughts and feelings.

We must regularly ask God what doors we have opened—knowingly or unknowingly—that have allowed pollutants to come into His holy dwelling place. We must close these doors by repenting and asking God for forgiveness. This is how we perfect holiness. We don’t do this out of obligation, fear, or to earn God’s favor—but out of reverence, remembering the love and grace that were required in order for Him to first establish His dwelling within us.

Father, please reveal any open doors in my life that have tarnished Your holy dwelling place. I want my body and spirit to be wholly pleasing to You. Please expose any sin or distraction that keeps me from experiencing the fullness of Your presence in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.