Transformation Takes Time
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving/or us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. -II CORINTHIANS 4:16-18 NIV
Have you ever watched the miraculous transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly? The process is slow and steady. There are no fireworks or big, flashy moments. Instead, the caterpillar does the work quietly and slowly. And after time, the transformation reveals the majesty and beauty of a new butterfly. This is the life we are called to in Christ: slow and steady transformation.
Take a second to slow down. Head to a quiet place where you can be alone with God. Breathe deeply in and out. Shift your attention to God's Word and prepare to receive from Him.
A complete metamorphosis takes time. From the perspective of the cocoon, the process can seem fruitless and futile. Do not be discouraged by slow or even painful progress. God will transform your life one thought at a time, one behavior at a time, one day at a time. This process will continue as long as you are living on earth. Your complete transformation-when you will be fully, finally, and gloriously changed into your sinless, eternal state-will occur in the presence of Jesus.
Remember, transformation is progressive. Your physical body is becoming older and weaker, but the Spirit inside you is making you spiritually new every day. God is using the troubles and challenges of your life to help you grow and mature in your faith. Your future glory in the presence of Jesus is much greater than the troubles you experience on earth. So set your sights on eternity. Do not be discouraged by this life and its challenges. Instead, you can renew your mind daily in the Word of God and look with hope toward your future, complete transformation. God will bring about His eternal plan for you. He who promised is faithful.
PRAYER:
I will praise You, 0 Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing praise to Your name, 0 Most High. I struggle daily to make better choices. I grow frustrated and hopeless when I fail, but I know that You give me hope. When I face trials and temptations, please give me the confidence to know that I have Your power on my side. Help me to not grow weary: Thank You for Your eternal assurance. Thank You for the fulfillments of the promises to come. Thank You for giving me a physical cocoon to house my eternal spiritual being. Help me keep trusting in You for eternal transformation. God, You are here with me and You hear me. I know my journey will not be easy, but I know I'm not alone. You understand the difficulty and challenges of this process. Holy Spirit, transform my heart. Help me persevere in personal growth and development. Remove deterring and dismaying thoughts from my mind. Give me the ability to push through agony and pain in order to make the transformation complete. Amen.
This is an excerpt from Pray: Daily Moments to Quiet Your Mind and Center Your Soul – a devotional now available on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.
