Cleanliness is not next to godliness.  But, godliness apart from cleanliness can be obscured by distractions of uncleanness and disorder.  Kingdom life should, sooner or later, begin to manifest itself in cleanliness and order.

Trashed people, trashed wardrobes, trashed cars and homes, are most often signs of ignorance and/or wrong priorities.  “First the natural, then the spiritual” has some practical and down-to-earth ramifications. 

Forty years ago, we met a lady who had secluded herself for the purpose of prayer.  She stated that God was her first priority, and that Mary chose the better way over Martha.  Her home was trashed; her children were ignored and running wild.  My quiet, shy Barbara said, “With a little more effort you could do both!”

We must be aware that how we live, how we order our lives and care for our personal possessions has an affect upon our witness.  Yes, we have this treasure in earthen vessels.  It is appropriate for our humanity to be seen.  But, our humanity need not be cluttered or unclean.

I’m not talking about excesses, extravagances, glamour and glitz.  (I once had a bright green suit and also a plaid suit!)  These, too, can be distractions that obscure the glory of God.

Jesus has given us His glory.  His power is hidden in His glory.  Let’s not quench His power by obscuring His glory through our own thoughtlessness, carelessness or laziness.  Let’s not give in to the flesh at the expense of glorifying God in our bodies, our homes, our possessions, and our lifestyles.

The world is looking for lives that confirm our testimony.  I am thankful for Barbara for many reasons.  Among them, I am thankful that she raised me to enjoy cleanliness and order.