Put to death, therefore, whatever in you is earthly: fornication, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed (which is idolatry). On account of these the wrath of God is coming on those who are disobedient. These are the ways you also once followed, when you were living that life. But now you must get rid of all such things - anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive language from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have stripped off the old self with its practices…

Colossians 3:5-9

Cleaning is not a one time event, it happens every day of our lives. Sin is like dust and clutter. You want to eliminate all of it with one prayer of confession and repentance. But sin does not surrender easily. Thought by thought, bad attitudes return. Choice by choice, unpleasant consequences pile up.

Christ's death and resurrection eliminated the need for daily sacrifice. But confession and repentance are still essential to the Christian's daily life. Getting rid of such things as anger, rage, and malice is a way of life, not a one-time event.

The best eraser in the world

is an honest confession to God.

Our Daily Bread - September 10, 2004