Work in Progress

by Zeke Flores

Both of my grandfathers died before I was born, so I never got the opportunity to know them. From what I heard from those who did, they were like most men, with lives salted and peppered with both good and bad. But instead of worrying about what kind of men my grandfathers were, I should be more concerned with what kind of man their grandson is.

I wish everyone I knew could say I've been a steadfast and continuous warrior of the gospel. I wish they could say my love for the Son of God has driven me to a never-ending, always-increasing service for Him. Some might. But others who know me better know that I fail from time to time. Those who know me best know that I am often filled with self-doubt and frustration over my inability to do more and better work for Him.

But here's His answer to my angst and self-disappointment: "I'm not done with you yet." I’m not finished, He’s still making me! I’m still being molded and shaped and conformed to Jesus’ likeness (Romans 8:29).

And here's more good news -- so are you.

God’s not finished with us; we are still being drawn and invited into a relationship with him. Jesus served us first, and from that place of being served by Him, we can serve Him and His church.

What God does for me is turn my focus from myself and toward Jesus. This may seem simple, but it is a monumental gift of change and transformation. He can do the same for you. No matter where we’ve fallen from or what we've broken, our Maker has a grand design and intention for us that is not yet complete. Rest in hope and turn your focus upward and outward. Let Him change your focus from your anxiety and frustration in yourself to confident trust and faith in Him.

"And I'm sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:6).