Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. – Philippians 1:3–6
A man was touring a paper factory in England that many said made the finest paper in the world. On the tour, he was shown a huge pile of old rags that were one of the elements used to make the paper. The tour guide told him that the old rags were what made the paper so sturdy and of such high quality.
Before he left, he ordered a package of stationery to be sent to him. A few weeks later, he received from the company a package of paper with his initials embossed on it. On the top piece were written the words, “Dirty Rags Transformed.”
The same is true of the Christian life. Only Jesus can transform our lives from what we were into something new and wonderful. And that’s exactly what He promises to whomever comes to Him.
Maybe today you feel like you’re early on in the process of being transformed into something new. Don’t be discouraged. Jesus started the work in you the moment you came to faith. And you can be confident He’ll finish it!
Prayer Challenge
Ask God to give you the assurance that He’s working in your life – and will finish what He started!
Questions for Thought
Why do you believe God usually makes transformation a process rather than a moment in time?
What are your “dirty rags” today that God is making clean?