The Process

By Katie Gibson

I never understood the appeal of Pinterest... until we signed a contract on a house. Our new abode is a quaint, 1953 ranch with vintage charm that just cries out for farmhouse décor (did somebody say “shabby chic?”).

Since then, I have created “boards” for every room, containing everything from color palettes, to furniture, to decorative items— and everything in between. In my mind’s eye, I can see the finished rooms, warm and inviting, cozy spaces where my little family can settle down and enjoy life together.

But there’s a problem— that’s Point Z, and I’m still at about Point C.

In between Point C and Point Z is signing and closing, planning and gathering, hanging and painting… saving and spending. Yes, that. While I want the finished product (and I want it N-O-W), there is a process in between.

Much is the same with my Christian walk. While I want to look like a “house” straight out of Home & Gardens, most days I recognize that I’m more of a 1980’s split-level.  I want to be that patient mom, that dynamic writer, that perfect Christ-follower; but instead, I realize the depth of my sinful nature and the reality of my humanity.

The process is so frustrating.

The process is not always easy or fun.

But the process is the point.

While I’m not jumping up and down cheering for the process (yet); what I’m beginning to see is that in the middle of Point A to Point Z God is working on me, in me, and through me— developing me into a useful vessel, prepared for the future He has in store.

God has a great future in store for us, His followers— even greater than we could imagine. But we cannot despise the process; we cannot sit around wishing God would magically transform us like some Cinderella Fairy Godmother.

Just like in renovating a house, intentional change requires hard work and perseverance… patience and trust.

I love what Paul writes in Philippians 2:13, “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.”

Working in you.

Not an overnight success, but a work in progress.

Friend, I know sometimes it seems like there isn’t any change happening. If you’re like me, I know at times I think, “I should be further than this by now!”

But look back a few pages to the point of your salvation— see how far God has brought you. See how much change that has already taken place! How much more can He accomplish through us if we stay available and obedient?

We need to remember that we are fully equipped for everything the Lord has entrusted to us right here, right now.

Today, don’t waste your time wishing to be something you’re not. Don’t despise the process. Instead, focus on staying moldable, allowing yourself to be shaped beneficially by the challenges and circumstances of life, knowing that, through it all, God is fully equipping you for the glorious future He has planned for you.


Word of the Day:
“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Philippians 2:13 (NIV)

Prayer:
Father, thank you that you are always working within me, even when I don’t recognize it. Thank you for the wonderful future you have planned for me. Help me to embrace the process. Help me to stay open and moldable to your work in my life, always, in all ways. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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