In James 4:8 we are reminded to “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” There is a double mission here as James invokes the notion of the need for personal hygiene and a reminder of the requirement to be clean in the sight of God.
The Healing School Magazine published an informative article on the subject to coincide with the international event on the 15th of October. Washing your hands is a simple and effective way of limiting the spread of viruses, bacteria, and other microbes.
Wash Often
Wash after you use the restroom, wash before you prepare food, wash before you tend to your children, wash after you tend your children. It is a good idea to wash your hands at regular intervals throughout the day whatever you are doing.
Wash With Soap And Water
It is preferable to wash your hands with soap and water as this is the best way to remove the accumulated germs that can linger on your hands. If you do not have access to this then you should use a hand sanitizer containing over 60% alcohol.
Take Your Time
Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Remember your to clean under your nails and in any cracks and crevices on your hand. You can make it a fun experience by singing as you scrub.
Dry Your Hands
Germs breed in warm and moist environments so take your time and dry your hands thoroughly. If you are using an air dryer make sure you have enough time to dry everything thoroughly. Paper towels are also an effective and hygienic way of drying your hands as the germs are disposed of.
Protect Your Skin
Some soaps can dry out your skin so take care. Furthermore, according to some research, it is better to wash our hands with a simple soap than use a block of soap with antibacterial properties as you could be washing away your skin’s natural immunity to certain germs.
Keep Your Soap Clean
Unless you are using a hand dispenser containing liquid soap try to keep the soap bar dry. If you pick up a damp bar of soap rinse it before you commence lathering.
Most of all enjoy washing your hands and think of it as preparing yourself to receive the messages and works of Jesus Christ our Savior. As God-Loving Christians we should be ready to do His work at all times. Being clean is synonymous with being ready.
When you are clean and ready you are more receptive to hearing the Word of God. You can join in the prayers and:-
“team up with us to take God’s healing power to the nations, reaching millions with the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; hence, you will partake of the unique grace at work at the Healing School and become increasingly relevant in God’s kingdom.”
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