Just as a great sculptor gives complete attention to detail, God shapes every aspect of our character. With precision, He moves in rhythm with us through every turn of events in our lives, molding us into useful vessels.
God will place men and women in our lives who have walked this way ahead of us. They understand the refining process and will be able to encourage us so that we get the most out of the lessons.
For all of us, life gains rather than loses meaning as we relinquish our supposed power as independent women. In dying to ourselves in the midst of adversity, the very power that raised Christ from the dead moves into our lives!
It is very valuable to be aware of where we are in the stages of personal and spiritual growth. If we are in a particularly difficult stage, it is encouraging to know that it will not last forever.
On the other hand, if we are in a rich place of deep service to others, seeing where God has taken us and where we are going increases our gratitude and prepares us for the next adventure.
As Christ's character grows within us, others will begin asking us to lead them! Our gifting and yieldedness to the Holy Spirit will qualify us. With His life and power within, effective ministry is finally possible.
Joyce Strong is an author and international speaker. Visit her website for more information about her ministry.