Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/1521296
WheelsOfGrace.com | Volume 15 Issue 3 | 19 CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren" (Romans 8:28-29, NKJV). It is no surprise that not everything that comes our way is what we want. Yes, in life, we deal with many problems (opportunities). The difference between a problem and an opportunity is how we look at the issue. In the Christian walk of faith, we are not promised that everything will be easy. As a matter of fact, we are told that we will be tested, tried, and persecuted. Jesus said (paraphrased), the world did not like Me, and they will not like you. We will go through the fire but come out as pure gold. There will not be more put on us than we can stand, but with every test, a way of escape. How can we be made into the likeness and the image of God if the old man (woman) is not crucified? We are instructed to put off the old man and put on the new, which is in Christ. We are to be as a vessel in the Potter's hand to be molded into the desires and image of the Potter. We are His workmanship. We are not our own. While none of us enjoy the molding and pruning process, it is necessary for us to become Christ-like. This process is what helps us love the world. At the same time, know most assuredly by faith that God will meet the needs of people just like He has for us. Sometimes, I become more concerned about my comfort than God's will, and then the Holy Spirit always refocuses me (which I am very thankful for). Could it be that God's ultimate goal for our life on earth is not comfort but character development? I personally do not enjoy going through the fire, but I thank God that He puts me through the fire to develop character. In this, I benefit from the ability to point others to Christ with assurance that He will transform them as He has transformed me. Are you willing to take the next step in God's development plan for you? Step out of your comfort zone today and allow the Potter to mold you. He has a plan for you: to be a world-changer in Him. By John Ogden Sr MONTHLY WINNER Chris French $ 1 0 0 G I F T C A R D F R O M R O A D R U N N E R H A R L E Y - D A V I D S O N I N G O O D Y E A R , A Z