“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” Isaiah 61:10, NKJV
He shuffled his feet and wiped his sweaty palms on his jacket. His face twitched, producing a peculiar, cockeyed smile. Then, there she was, a vision of beauty, promenading down the aisle. The groom’s whole body radiated with delight.
They were so anxious to look their best for each other - all decked out in their wedding finery. As I sat in the chapel praying for them, the thought occurred to me: Jesus is fit and ready to meet me, His Bride, but am I fit and ready to meet Him, my Bridegroom?
Jesus died that the church, His Bride, might be “without spot or wrinkle or any other defect - holy and unblemished.” (Eph. 5:27a, Weymouth) She is to “be prepared - all dressed and ready – for [her] Lord’s return.” (Luke 12:35-36a, TLB)
When the heavenly Bridegroom arrives, will the Bride be dressed in an old rag, spotted with worldly residue? Or will she be “a bride beautifully dressed for her husband”, dressed in pure love for her Beloved Bridegroom in a spotless gown of holiness? (Rev. 21:2)
Will He radiate with delight in you, His bride? Will you be dressed in pure love?
Lord, You loved me enough to die to give me a pure wedding garment of holiness. May I love You enough to keep that gown unsullied from the world and meet You in holiness on Your return. May I be continually dressed and ready to go at a moment’s notice. Amen!
Take Action
Is there a habit, attitude or choice that has snuck into your life that you need to deal with? God does not expect us to be perfect, but He does require us to constantly come to Him in confession when we slip up. Take some time today to keep short accounts with God. Practice spiritual breathing. Some issues can be challenging to deal with. If you'd like some support, talk to a coach. (It's private and free.)
Take a closer look at the practice of spiritual breathing
