Scripture:

Matthew 23:27

“You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.”

Devotional:

Jesus called out the Pharisees for looking polished while carrying rot inside. And the truth is - we do this too. We can cover up sin, hide wounds, and put on our “church face” so people think we’re doing well. But deep down, if we haven’t invited God in, the cracks remain.

Surface-level faith is exhausting. It requires constant image management, constant effort to hide. Restoration, however, frees us. It strips away the whitewash so God can rebuild the heart. Renovation without honesty collapses, but honesty opens the way for restoration.

Reflection Questions:

1. Where am I more focused on looking good to others than being real with God?

2. What am I currently whitewashing or painting over cracks that need God’s touch?

3. How might my faith feel lighter if I stopped hiding?

Prayer:

Father, forgive me for the ways I’ve covered up instead of opening up. I don’t want to live surface-level. Strip away the paint and heal me deeply.

Action Step:

Tell one trusted person (a friend, pastor, or spouse) one area you’ve been hiding. Ask them to pray with you and walk alongside you in that area.