“For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.”
– 1 Corinthians 3:9
Yesterday, we talked about how God’s temple is in us. To further expound on this thought, today, I want to share another analogy. Our experience last year may have made us a bit “trigger shy” when it comes to fully embracing what’s ahead. After all, none of us could have seen what was coming, and if we could have, we might not have set our expectations so high. However, as Christians, I don’t think there’s any compelling reason to pull back our hopes and dreams for 2021. Even if the coming months bring disappointment or loss, we can adopt an attitude of courageous faith which trusts that everything that happens is part of the Lord’s construction project in our lives. I love C.S. Lewis’ analogy in Mere Christianity in which he explains that we are living houses that the Holy Spirit has moved into to do some major remodeling. While at first he just cleans out the gutters and fixes the leaks in the roof — and these things are expected and minor — He then begins building new wings, adding towers, and constructing courtyards. By the time He’s fully at work, we’re shouting in protest of the discomfort, but all the while He is designing not a modest cottage, but a castle — one that He intends to live in Himself. My friend, the God of Creation doesn’t dwell in small shacks; He constructs powerful palaces that point clearly to His glory. Although demolition, hammering, and rebuilding can be a source of struggle, they are part of His perfect design for your life. While it may cause pain, when the Master Architect moves into your midst, He never stops perfecting, shaping, and transforming your body, mind, and spirit into His likeness. And because He is incomprehensibly grand, so is His work in your soul. Knowing this, you can embrace every form of discomfort that finds you and trust unswervingly that each temporary pain leads to an eternal gain! |
Prayer
Jesus, as I embrace this new year, I invite you to set up your construction project in my soul. Though the building up may be painful, I know it’s for my gain and for your glory.
Reflection
How will you yield to the Master Builder this year?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
Starting tomorrow morning after stepping on the scale and weighing myself. I will write down the number on a piece of paper and use that as a chart to keep track of
loss or gain. I want my body to be healthy and free of diseases such as several other types of cancer and heart disease and high blood pressure.I also want to cut back on desserts such as ice-cream and cookies. And to watch my portion intake. So by doing those small essentials. My whole inside and outside will be transformed into a beautiful new creation. I hope and pray that the Hour of Power will continue its mission of reaching out to all around the world with the positive and uplifting messages of God. Be not afraid. I go before you always.Amen and Alleluia