Process

<<procedure>>

We are in the process of being transformed into the likeness of Christ (Rom 8:29; 2 Cor 3:18). "God who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ" (Phil 1:6). While He chooses the particular methods and route dependent on the raw material available (us) and the unique final product He desires, we determine the pace by our willingness to yield to the refining fires and the quality of our walk with Jesus (Rom 9:21; 2 Tim 2:20,21). Don’t resent or complain about the trials God is allowing whereby the old nature is being dealt with, instead we are to rejoice that these are the means whereby the desired goal can be reached (Rom 5:3-5). Like clay on the potter’s wheel, yield to the master craftsman, don’t resist His purposes for “We are the clay, you are the potter” (Isa 64:8; Jer 18:6). Do I want to remain a lump of clay or be made into a useful vessel?

We can’t get from where we are to where we desire to be without the experiences of life. The process will mould us from what we are into a ‘vessel of honour’ if we co-operate with Him. The passing “from death to life” takes place instantly, yet the change and growth in righteousness is a development not an instant makeover. The Israelites crossed into Canaan in a day but it took many years of

determined battle before they conquered the land (Ex 23:30; Jn 5:24). Keep the long-term view in sight as Jesus did when facing the cross, by looking beyond the pain of the present to the future reward (Heb 12:2,3). The pain of achieving is more bearable when focusing on the goal.

Am I co-operating with His processes or resisting?