Works in Progress

Philippians 1:6, ESV

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

I wonder if anyone else is sometimes disheartened by the awareness of their continued sinfulness, and the continued sinfulness of others.

I know I am.

It’s an ironic thing that the more we grow in relationship with God, the more aware we become of our own sinfulness—thoughts that arise throughout the day, reactions to events or circumstances, desires that knock on the doors of our heart. Sometimes it seems like we should be past some of these things, and it’s frustrating when they still come knocking.

But guess who else knocks? 

Jesus. :)

And that’s the wrestle we go through until we see Jesus face to face—it’s the ongoing awareness of our continued need for sanctification.

God began the good work in us, He will continue the good work in us, and He will bring it to completion—at the day of Christ Jesus.

Until then, we’re all just works in progress.

I’m a work in progress.

You’re a work in progress.

And that person you’re struggling with who you wish was further down the road of sanctification—they’re a work in progress too.

Oh Lord, thank you that when we lean into you, you do the work of sanctification in us! Please help us to have grace, not only for ourselves, but also for our brothers and sisters in Christ, as we’re all making our way along this journey of sanctification. Amen.