Toxic

Pro Tip: Keep a good water bottle by your side and never put anything in it but water.

When I was in middle school I got my first Nalgene bottle.  For those not familiar with Nalgene, it  started out as a “top of the line”  super durable water bottle for outdoor enthusiasts.  I carried that water bottle with me through years of adventures.  That bottle, now retired, is covered with scratches and stickers that bring back fond memories.  

When I was given my Nalgene I was taught never to put anything in it but water.  I have been tempted over the years to use it for other things, especially coffee, but I have always found another option.  Obviously some people think it’s a little crazy but I have good reason.  Over time water bottles that are used for other things can get really gross and even with the best cleaning some smells never go away.  

Like an empty water bottle God designed us with “space.”  What goes in our space isn’t always up to us, but we are responsible for the contents.  Being good stewards of the space we are given can be very complicated but we don’t have to do it alone. 

Like it or not our reality is full of options and many aren’t that great for us.  Some are so bad that they become toxic and actually do considerable damage.

The Good news is that we can be pretty durable.  If you’ve absorbed too much toxicity, don’t worry.  You are not ruined.  Throughout life we all develop funky smells but God is always willing to provide a good deep cleaning.

“Incensed, Jesus reached out his hand, touched him, and said, “I do want to. Be clean.””  Mark‬ ‭1:41‬ ‭CEB

We can all do a better job of filling the space God made in us.  What do you read, watch, or choose for your listening pleasure?  Who are you allowing to share your days?  Where do you invest your time and energy?  

Figure out what things are not helpful and avoid them.  Recognize things that are good for you and fill your empty space with them instead.  Life is a precious gift.  Take good care of your “forever” bottle.

“Run away from adolescent cravings. Instead, pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace together with those who confess the Lord with a clean heart.” 2 Timothy‬ ‭2:22‬ ‭CEB‬‬