Chapter 28 - It Takes Time

The very first line in this chapter sums it all up for me. There are no shortcuts to maturity.

The development of Christlike character cannot be rushed. Spiritual growth, like physical growth, takes time. I guess I wish it wasn't that way - but I know that growth is a process, not an overnight event. Yes, God could instantly transform us but he has chosen to develop us slowly. Like the PDL points out - we are slow learners so it is probably the best approach.

In our process of Christian growth we have to be patient, stay focused and not get discouraged. "God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again." Phil 1:6

I am thankful that Jesus believes in each of us so much.

Chapter 27- Defeating Temptation

Temptation will arise, you can count on it. Each of us have our own weaknesses or vulnerabilities that open the door for temptation. The ability to maintain willpower and to overcome temptation lies within each of us. Know that you have to means to thwart temptation.

Practicing the four biblical keys will help in your endeavors to defeat temptation. The first step is refocusing your attention. The book says that when you resist a thought you actually reinforce the thought thereby causing your desire to grow. But by actually accepting the thought and simply refocusing your attention onto something else you are able neutralize the appeal. The second step is to reveal your struggle to someone who will pray for you, encourage you and hold you accountable. The third step is to resist the devil by accepting God's salvation and using His Word as your weapon. Finally, we must realize our vulnerability. This means we must never let down our guard and above all, avoid putting ourselves in tempting situations.

Chapter 26 - Growing through Temptation

Happy is the man who doesn't give in and do wrong when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get as his reward the crown of life that God has promised those who love him. James 1:12

What a beautiful promise God gives us here. A crown of life for those that don't give in and do wrong. As we see it ...every temptation is an opportunity to do good. Temptation simply provides the choice. Every time you defeat a temptation, you become more like Jesus! We will grow through the temptations of life and develop in our spiritual maturity by praying for God's help. Don't give up. Look to God in each situation. A crown awaits each of us!

Chapter 25- Transformed by Trouble

Bad things happen to good people. It's inevitable. Everyone has their own set of 'troubles'. No one, not even Jesus got to bypass the trials and tribulations of this world. Understanding what is expected of us and learning how to deal with whatever might be put upon us is how God molds us. Of course, the ultimate goal is to build Christlike character, which in many cases is a challenge in itself.

Events that unfold in many lives are so deeply traumatizing that it is hard to even imagine how to respond let alone how Jesus would respond. I recently read the book of Job and as I thought about his situation it occurred to me that his character was much more developed than mine. I can say with a good amount of certainty that I probably would have started praying for forgiveness for whatever sin I committed that I didn't know about. I would have been second guessing myself thinking 'did my neighbors goat get mixed with mine?' 'who was I mean to?' 'what did I do wrong?'. But, Job was absolutely positive that he did nothing wrong and unwilling to even think that was a possibility. He held fast to his conviction and never gave up his faith. How exhilarated he must have been to find that he was the only man alive who put Satan to shame!

We're not expected to thank God for suffering- we're expected to be thankful for the opportunity to grow. Most of all, we need to help each other, support each other, and refuse to give up or give in- just like Job... especially when it seems hopeless. Keep your eyes on the prize.