It is tempting to think that we do not need to improve much. While some people admit that they could perhaps improve in some areas, they usually add, But I am a good person! The truth is, however, that the Heavenly Father is not satisfied with our dim vision of good enough. He wants something much better for us.

God sees every believer as the person they will be when they are fully surrendered to Christ. He then brings about that complete renewal by transforming the present self into the image of his Son (1 Corinthians 15:49). An essential step in the work God is doing involves removing everything that is ungodly in our lives. This process is often awkward or difficult, but it is worth it! God points to habits, attitudes, and relationships that do not honor Him. He applies pressure to direct our attention to those points so that we give them to him.

Conforming our will to His, changes who we are. In the midst of our transformation, the pain or discomfort can temporarily obscure the beauty of your design. But nothing is more beautiful to the Lord than a committed follower who obeys no matter what. Submit to Him so that He can transform you into the son or daughter He has in mind.

Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that Your plans are not limited to the view I have of myself. Thank You that You want to keep working in me to achieve the purpose for which I was created. Lord, the process of growing hurts, but it is worth it, because it brings me closer to You. Help me to live a life surrendered to You, every day. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

1.    Romans 8:29-31 (NLT).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.