In our over-scheduled, over-worried, over-whatevered lives, it’s difficult to practice the patience required to process personal and spiritual change.
Yesterday a coaching partner moaned, “I should be ‘fixed’ by now. Yet I still struggle. A mentor told me that God usually heals instantly. Not happening here. I’m confused.”
Together, we brainstormed examples of how God approves of process: A seed grows over time into a healthy tree or bush that produces flowers, fruit or vegetables. Creation took several swoops of God’s hand. Jesus navigated childhood and adolescence to finally fulfill His purpose at age 33. Prospective mommies wait nine months for their babies to arrive. Those babies learn to walk, talk, reason, and work after months and years of trial and error–it’s never instantaneous. Indeed, God sanctions and smiles at the process of growth and transformation. Isn’t that a relief?
What kind of process are you in at the moment?
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Joan, I am thrilled to find a way to contact you! I am reading through your book, MEDITATIONS FOR CHRISTIANS WHO TRY TO BE PERFECT for the second time. I found it on our family bookshelf – no one seems to know where it came from! Possibly one of our overnight guests left it! After reading it the first time, I went online to buy it for others that I knew would benefit from it and I found that it was no longer in print. Thankfully, I was able to find used copies!
I was shocked that it was no longer in print! It is one of the most helpful books that I have ever read! So, I have a thought . . . do you suppose that the title is holding it back? Honestly, I don’t think that I would have ever picked it up off of the shelf by the title. In addition, I feel like I have to explain to my friends why I am giving them the book . . . and let them know that I don’t think that they are trying to be perfect – but that I think that they might enjoy this book. Anyway, I want to thank you for baring your soul with your readers and compliment you on a book well written!
Hi Jennifer,
How fun that you found my blog. Thank you for your affirming comments about Meditations for Christians Who Try to Be Perfect. So glad it has impacted you.
Glad we’ve become “friends” on Facebook. I sent you a message from there.
But you know, you are really onto something here: And that’s the title of the “Meds” book. It wasn’t my choice. And I had “discussions” with the publishing house. For the very reasons that you mention above! Isn’t that something?! I look forward to connecting on FB. Thanks again for your comments. I know you would like my 2 latest books, The Relief of Imperfection and the follow-up devo book, It’s a Wonderful (Imperfect) Life. Let me know. Relief blessings to you!