Appearances Versus Intent, Part Two or Whitewashing

 Continuing in the study of making sure my intent is pure and not just for appearance sake.... 

I was thinking today of whitewash. Here are some definitions I looked up about whitewash:

It is a cheaper way of cleaning something up. It can rub off easily. It is just a coating.Whitewash aids in sanitation by coating and smoothing over the rough surfaces. Successive applications of whitewash build up layers of scale which flake off and in the process remove surface debris with it. It is used on farms and in barns and typically the application is an annual process.Lime wash is pure slaked lime in water and produces a unique surface glow.

So to sum it up, it can clean or disinfect some but not permanently or deeply, it flakes off and can produce a temporary "glow", it's cheap. So you may guess where I'm going with this: spiritual application :)

• Whitewash reminds me of the old testament sacrifices for sin. They weren't sufficient. Those sacrifices had to be performed daily and yearly. Hebrews 7 states why Christ's sacrifice was so much better than those sacrifices. His sacrifice went clear to the depth of my and your heart.

• Whitewash reminds me of humans trying to find a cheaper way to be spiritually clean. Habits can be changed, physically we can "fix up" the outside, work on good manners, etc. but unless there is a heart change from God those deeds just remove surface debris. They only produce a surface "glow". They're flaky. 

• Whitewash reminds me of how a church can have a nice building, well mannered people, fun programs,  a great website and good singing. But if there is a suppressing and hiding of sin it is worth nothing to God. 

Jesus puts it this way in Matthew 23:27-28 "you are like a whitewashed burial place which appears beautiful on the outside but inside is full of dead bones and uncleanness. you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity." 

At revival last night it was said how we don't see conviction and crying out to God like we used to. It is because men are content with a little cheap whitewash, willing to play the game of church.  It is so much harder to keep an  appearance than to have the real thing in our heart from Jesus. Jesus said His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

I keep asking God to search my heart and see if there is any sin there and keep me ready and genuine every day.  The recent unexpected loss of 2 saved friends, one 18 and the other 70 brings it closer to home. I don't want to be whitewashed.