Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting [Psalm 139:23-24].
An addition to the home, even if it is just a remodel, can be an exciting time. But it can also be physically demanding, emotionally draining, and spiritually enlightening.
Recently, we remodeled our screened porch into an enclosed sunroom. Although the screened room was initially enjoyable, the excessive pollen and bugs became problematic. Who can enjoy a nice breeze while seated on a covering of fine yellow dust and feeling cobwebs under the table?
So, demolition and construction began. Out with the old, in with the new. With renewed interest and anticipation, we checked the progress daily. First the framing, then electrical. With all wiring and insulation tucked in place, the sheet rock covered it all. We now had a room! And it looked perfect.
Then came the priming and painting—which the contractor readily agreed to let me do.
Getting up close and personal with the walls, I began noticing the imperfections. Here and there, small holes, gouges, and scrapes somehow survived the spackling coverage. From a distance, they were undetectable. But upon closer inspection, and when covered with primer, they became quite visible. More work was required to repair these small deficiencies.
How similar this is to the Christian walk. After conversion, we begin with enthusiasm and commitment. How great is our God! Each day, we approach Him with anticipation, excited at His new work in us! As time passes, we see the progress He makes—and the temptation remains to step back and think, “Wow, I clean up pretty nicely!”
But upon His closer inspection…
How grateful I am for the ongoing transformation of the Holy Spirit and the purifying work of God’s living Word. He sees my imperfections, even those seemingly small, invisible holes and cracks, and continues His “spackling action.” As I yield to Him and allow Him to “search me, O God,” He lovingly reveals those areas still in need of His transforming touch. It’s all part of His overall renovation “until Christ is formed” in me [Galatians 4:19].
Thank you, God, for continuing to renovate and renew my life so I may one day stand before You complete in You, robed in Your righteousness, as part of Your spotless Bride!
