Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion - it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ. --Billy Graham
I am a perfectionist. I am also a "go-getter". Everyone knows that if they want something to get done they should ask me to do it, because I tend to take ideas and run with them. So when I became a Christian again, I tried to do the same thing. I had a whole list of things I wanted to change about my ways, to better bring glory to the Lord through my life. The inevitable happened, and I slid back, resulting in being disappointed with myself.
One of the greatest lessons I have learned was something my mom said to me a year or so ago: "Amy Joy, it's a walk with Christ, not a sprint."
I'm just so excited by my faith that I want to sprint! I want to become a person worthy of my calling NOW! This quote spoke to me, as I see that my desire for change should stay, but the change needs to be gradual and permanent. Day by day, hour by hour, the Holy Spirit will work in me to help me to become more like Christ.
I really wrestle with the process of sanctification too.
ReplyDeleteSomeone once described the condition of 'spiritual bulimia' to me that resonated: When you read an awesome book, get really excited about it, then move on to another book a week or so later. I did that for AGES and never allowed things to just sink in or give myself time to pray and hear God's voice about things. I love what your mum said too! I'll definitely remember that.