Growing in Grace: Having Patience with Yourself and Jesus' Transformational Surgery

The journey of faith often feels like a winding road, filled with moments of doubt, fear, and shame. As believers, we sometimes struggle with the gap between where we are and where we think we should be, convinced that we should have it all together by now. However, the truth is we are a constant work in progress, molded and refined by the hands of our Heavenly Father. Today, let's talk about the importance of being patient with ourselves as Jesus works to transform our hearts into the likeness of who He created us to be.

Utilizing Patience with Yourself

One of the most beautiful aspects of a relationship with Jesus is the understanding that we are always growing. Philippians 1:6 (MSG) reassures us, "There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears." This verse is a powerful reminder that our walk is an ongoing process, one that God is faithfully committed to seeing us through.

🌟Practical Tips for Cultivating Patience:

1. Self-Compassion: Often, our worst critic is ourselves. Learning to extend the same grace to ourselves that we would offer others is crucial. Reflect on this passage from Isaiah 40:29 (MSG), "He energizes those who get tired, gives fresh strength to dropouts." Understand that it is perfectly normal to feel weary at times and that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness.

2. Regular Reflection: Take time to journal or pray about your progress. Keeping a spiritual journal helps you reflect on how far you’ve come and recognize the small victories along the way. Psalms 103:2 (MSG) encourages us to, "Don't forget a single blessing," reminding us to remain grateful for each step forward, however small.

3. Community Support: Surrounding yourself with encouraging and understanding fellow believers can provide immense support. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (MSG) says, "It's better to have a partner than go it alone. Share the work, share the wealth. And if one falls down, the other helps." Engage in open and honest conversations and draw strength from your community.

Trusting in Jesus’ Transformational Work

While we may often feel inadequate, it’s essential to remember that Jesus is the one guiding our transformation. 2 Corinthians 3:18 (MSG) beautifully captures this, "Nothing between us and God, our faces shining with the brightness of his face. And so we are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives, and we become like him."

This verse reminds us that transformation is a gradual process—a journey of continually being refined and made more like Christ.

Practical Tips for Trusting Jesus:

1. Daily Surrender: Each day, make a conscious choice to surrender your worries, doubts, and fears to Jesus. Jeremiah 29:11 (MSG) reassures us, "I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for." Trusting in His plans enables us to release control and lean into His faithfulness.

2. Scripture Immersion: Immerse yourself in God’s word regularly. Romans 12:2 (MSG) urges us, "Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out." Allow His truth to renew your mind and transform your heart.

3. Consistent Prayer: Build a fervent prayer life where you communicate openly with Jesus. Share your struggles, victories, and everything in between. Philippians 4:6-7 (MSG) instructs, "Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns." Through prayer, we align our hearts with His and gain peace that transcends understanding.

Overcoming Doubt, Fear, and Shame

It’s normal to experience doubt, fear, and shame, but we are not meant to dwell in these feelings. Isaiah 43:1 (MSG) offers comfort, "Don't be afraid, I've redeemed you. I've called your name. You're mine." As we recall the truth that we belong to Jesus, we find the strength to overcome these negative feelings.

Practical Ways to Overcome These Emotions:

1. Affirm Your Identity in Christ: Regularly affirm who you are in Christ. 1 Peter 2:9 (MSG) states, "You are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God's instruments to do his work and speak out for him." Remind yourself of your value and purpose.

2. Challenge Negative Thoughts: When plagued by doubt, fear, or shame, challenge these thoughts by countering them with scripture. 2 Timothy 1:7 (MSG) declares, "God doesn’t want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold, and loving, and sensible." Equip yourself with God’s truth to combat these lies.

3. Seek Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to seek professional counseling or therapy. Sometimes, unpacking deep-rooted issues with a trained professional helps us gain insights and healing.

The Ongoing Journey of Renewal and Restoration

Literally, remember that being a believer means embracing a lifelong journey of renewal and restoration. Lamentations 3:22-23 (MSG) assures us, "God's loyal love couldn't have run out, his merciful love couldn't have dried up. They're created new every morning. How great your faithfulness!" Each day offers a new opportunity to experience God’s mercy and grace anew. Accepting patience with yourself and trusting in Jesus' power is essential for every believer. Though we may not be where we want to be, we can take comfort in knowing that God is continuously at work in our lives, renewing and restoring us daily. Let us, therefore, be encouraged to walk this journey with grace, faith, and unwavering love, confident that He who began a good work in us will indeed bring it to completion.