It Can Take Time

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)

“A new creation” meaning being restored to God, “the old” meaning our selfish lifestyles and “the new” meaning being transformed into the likeness of Christ.

It is important to know that some come to faith with little or no “baggage” while others come with heavy “baggage” such as living in or fleeing a violent relationship, those estranged from children, parents and family, failed marriage, failed business, drug and alcohol misuse/dependent, those with serious medical and mental health issues etc.

Praying the “sinner’s” prayer and then progressing on to baptism does not mean the “baggage” suddenly or instantly goes away. Of course, God works miracles and can transform lives in an instant, however, for many of us the transformation will be gradual.  

In the church, there are the weak, the bruised and the vulnerable. These ones are no less Christians or less saved. So, if you are a newish believer or you’ve known the Lord for some time and if today you are asking, if you’re wondering, if you’re confused why your own situation isn’t changing or getting better, take heart friend! God loves you. He gives each of His children a measure of faith and grace to navigate life. Yours too shall come to pass! Though it tarries, wait for it!

Too often believers, especially those that have known the Lord for some time, knowingly or unknowingly tend to make it difficult for the weak and vulnerable amongst us to experience the awesome grace of God, expecting them to ‘grow up’ and ‘grow out’ of their challenges. But God is patient with us, He knows our weaknesses, our challenges and our struggles, and He lovingly and gently empowers us through His Holy Spirit to overcome.  

If you are bold, strong and confident in the Lord, give God the glory for the measure of faith and grace given you to navigate life; then use this faith and grace to encourage, build up, and nurture the weak, the bruised and the vulnerable amongst us.

Stay blessed,

Alex