The Tempo of a God-Breathed Life
And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:18
ME: Why do I still somehow believe that I deserve a problem-free life? I know what Your Word says and yet, I like to think that I am special.
JESUS: You are My beautiful creation but you certainly are not perfect.
ME: I understand that, but part of me really wants quick resolutions to all my difficulties.
JESUS: You know that is false hope, right?
ME: Yeah, I get that. I know that I should not link my hope to problem solving in this life but to the promise of an eternity of trouble-free life with You in heaven. But that is soooo hard!
JESUS: Instead of seeking perfection in this fallen world, why don’t you pour your energy into seeking Me—the Perfect One.
ME: For one thing, I don’t comprehend how in the world it is possible to glorify You in the midst of a mess. I watch others who seem to do much better at this; Your light shines brightly through them even when the circumstances are bleak. How come?
JESUS: Well, My precious child, this is a supernatural trust produced by the Holy Spirit residing in them.
ME: But I have the Holy Spirit in me!
JESUS: That is true, but you don’t seem to rely on My Spirit as much as some.
ME: If it makes my life any easier, I invite You to transform me and teach me how to get closer to Your Holy Spirit. I think I will need some help not to try to resist or speed up the process. What do you think?
JESUS: (chuckling) I understand that more than you can possibly know! This is not a quick fix. This is going to take time.
ME: But I long to enjoy the tempo of a God-breathed life.
JESUS: Then let Me set the pace!
ME: How long do you think all this will take?
JESUS: Until eternity!
Mo Haner with Sarah Young
Photograph: Michael Johnston