Clean, But Still Needing a Foot Wash
"Jesus said to him, ‘He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you.’" – John 13:10 (NKJV)
Devotional Thought:
When Jesus told Peter that the one who is bathed only needs to wash his feet, He wasn’t talking about hygiene — He was revealing a spiritual truth.
The bath represents the complete cleansing of salvation. When we accept Christ as Lord and Savior, His sacrifice washes us clean — past, present, and future. That is a once-for-all work of grace.
But as we live in this world, our “feet” still pick up the dust of sin:
The quick flare of anger.
The subtle pride in our accomplishments.
The worry that creeps in when we forget Who holds us.
These don’t undo our salvation, but they do affect our intimacy with God. That’s why Jesus invites us to come daily, allowing Him to “wash our feet” through confession, repentance, and renewal in His Word.
And then there’s the warning — “Not all of you.” Judas was close in proximity to Jesus but far from Him in heart. His feet weren’t just dirty; his soul had never been cleansed. Outward closeness to the things of God is not the same as inward surrender to Him.
Today’s Takeaway:
You don’t need to be “re-saved” every time you stumble. But you do need regular foot-washings to keep your walk fresh and your fellowship with God unhindered.
Reflection Questions:
Where have I picked up “dust” in my spiritual walk this week?
Do I mistake outward closeness to God’s people or activities for inward surrender to Christ?
When was the last time I let the Lord “wash my feet” in prayer and confession?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You that You have washed me clean through Your sacrifice. Teach me to come to You daily, letting You remove the dust and dirt from my walk. Keep my heart tender, my spirit humble, and my life fully surrendered to You. In Jesus name, Amen.
