Repaired & Clean

When we moved into the house we currently live in, all the windows were in great need of help. I think they were all original to this 1950s ranch-style home. So, we replaced them.

Just recently, we are noticing they just are no longer as good as new. Two windows have broken lift mechanisms. Another is showing damage in the interior from the sun.

So, we went to the local hardware store to see if they carried parts. The clerk said no and added he'd had many requests for replacement parts for that brand. Then, he recommended a different style of window should we decide to replace them. He said this maker gave their windows a lifetime warranty AND would even come fix them if something happened. Of course, the windows we installed had no such warranty.

It made me think, though. Windows are of great importance. Not only do they open to allow fresh air, they are the means by which light enters our homes.

That is, unless they are broken or dirty.

Praying moms, as we come together before the Lord in prayer, we often want to rush right into our requests for our children. But, in order to pray rightly for our children, we need to be sure that our "windows" are in working order and clean. That is why it is a must that prior to coming to the Throne for our children, we come to Him for ourselves in confession and repentance.

Barnes' Notes on the Isaiah 59:2 say that sin rises up like a thick, dark cloud between us and the Lord so that we do not have clear view of Him and His face is hidden from us. Additionally, Lamentations 3:44 tells us that sin results in our path to God being broken so that prayer cannot pass through.

So, when you gather together, remember—first things first. Remind yourselves Who God is and give Him honor with your praises. Then, spend time silently before Him getting your heart windows repaired and cleansed.

If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins,

He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action].

1 John 1:9 (AMP)

Then—

And this is the confidence (the assurance, the privilege of boldness) which we have in Him: [we are sure] that if we ask anything (make any request) according to His will (in agreement with His own plan), He listens to and hears us. And if (since) we [positively] know that He listens to us in whatever we ask, we also know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that we have [granted us as our present possessions] the requests made of Him.

1 John 5:14-15 (AMP)