Because We’re All a Work in Progress
Over the last couple of years, I’ve watched my home undergo several renovation projects.
And with each floor that’s torn up, wall that’s removed, and plan that’s put in motion—I’m paying attention. As I’ve seen portions of our home demolished beyond recognition and put back together again—I’m learning that home renovations are so very similar to heart renovations.
1. You have to tear some things down before you can build back up in new and beautiful ways.
It’s impossible to see true transformation unless you remove the damaged and unhealthy portions first. Houses and people are alike in this way.
2. Working on the foundation isn’t the most appealing or attractive work but it is some of the most important.
Jesus spoke of this truth in Matthew 7:24-27:
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
Building our lives on anything but God’s Truth will result in a shaky foundation—a detriment to any building project before it even begins. Yes, we must put in the necessary, hard work of building our lives and our faith on the solid grounds of Scripture through consistency and daily seeking.
3. Not everyone is going to like what you’re doing.
Change invites both compliments and criticism. Just remember what comes out of someone else’s mouth is much more a reflection of their heart, not yours.
4. It’s good to stay humble enough to realize sometimes you need to get the professionals involved.
Some things you can do on your own and some things you can’t. Many small repairs can be handled without the help of a professional, but most large renovations—those deeps hurts and devastations—must be handled with care by those who are skilled in working with God to bring renewed health and restoration to both body and soul. My family and I have benefited greatly by bringing in the professionals in this season and we’re so grateful.
5. Those who don’t lose sight of the progress being made will find joy in the process.
And it’s always a process. Celebrate the wins, even the small ones. Stacks of small wins turn into big wins. And we can give God praise for each and every one.
“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:57
I’m sending all my love to you on this progress-filled day. Heart renovations, like home renovations, take diligence, patience, and a whole lot of prayer.
You are a beautiful work in progress.
Related posts:
Tearing Out the Old
Lord, help me see beauty
God’s Unfailing Love
