Holes or no holes, as you know, denim is a classic fabric in nearly everyone’s closet. Whether jeans, jean jackets, denim shirts, or long denim skirts, men and women alike usually have several forms of denim.
I didn’t realize it, but those holey jeans I purchased were high maintenance. I didn’t take the time to read the care instructions or care for them properly. Before long, the holes became bigger as the threads unraveled even more. I rarely wear holey jeans these days, but you will still find me in denim! It’s been a classic staple in wardrobes for decades—including mine! Singer and songwriter, Kelly Clarkson, once said, “In Texas, we practically come out of the womb in jeans.” I have seen many a baby photo in denim overalls. You probably have too!
I didn’t read the care instructions back then, and I rarely do today. I bought a pair of dark denim jeans recently and they came out of the first wash significantly faded and about three shades lighter. My dark jeans went into the washing machine dark and came out a new shade of faded blue. I wondered what I did wrong. Finally, I read the care instructions. I was supposed to turn the jeans inside out and wash in cold water on a delicate cycle. I guess I would have known had I simply read the care instructions for washing and drying them!
It takes some work keeping things looking new and caring for them properly. Care instructions are included for a reason! Over time, things fade, especially if they are not cared for appropriately. Our faith can do the same if we do not tend to it! The Bible is intended to encourage us with hope, challenge us in our faith, and teach us the ways of the Almighty God. The Bible is filled with instructions on how to receive salvation and forgiveness of our sins, rightly care for our soul, live with Jesus at the center of our life, and love others! Are we reading the Bible, the care instructions for our souls?
We have instructions to guide us in the process. The Bible, God’s Living Word, was written to instruct us. Are God’s instructions for you being left unread as you simply journey through life with your own thoughts and plans? Are you noticing a fading of your faith, almost as denim fades over time with improper care?
Let’s pay attention to the instructions the Lord left for us through His Living Word! Hebrews 2:1 says, “We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away” (ESV). Careful attention must be given to God’s Word! Apply it to your very life that you do not drift or fade away.
2 Peter 3:17-18 says, “You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen” (ESV).
Did you know there is such a thing as a denim dye kit to restore faded denim to its original, darker color? The garment must be completely soaked and washed in the dye to be restored. The process involves hot water to soften the fabric and allow the dye to fully penetrate the fabric. Some people even use salt, vinegar, or dish soap to help with even saturation. The process requires continual stirring and agitation to ensure complete coverage. Before long, the faded blue jean material can be as vibrant as ever.
There is restoration even for our souls as they are washed in the Word. Don’t lose heart! Don’t let your faith fade! Your inner self can be renewed day by day as the Bible tells us in 2 Corinthians 4. Are you ready to soak in His Word? Are you ready to sit in His presence? Are you willing to be saturated in His Truth? Don’t fade over time with improper care! Read the Bible daily and study the care instructions the Lord left for you!
How can you make Monumental Moments and live to multiply His movement today?
