Renovations

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Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Philippians 4:8)

​ RENOVATIONS

We are renovating our basement. Even as I write, I can hear my husband working away. I always get excited at the prospect of updating a space (and I especially enjoy anticipating the finished product), but it can feel overwhelming once it begins. There are so many decisions. I learned early on that renovations can easily double in cost and time from what was anticipated – and it’s a lot of hard work!

Fortunately, I am married to a carpenter who takes care of the logistics and does the hard work to tear out the old. As I watch the walls stripped down to the studs, wires, and plumbing, I am reminded there are so many things we don’t see under the walls and flooring, but they are vital to any project’s quality, comfort, and longevity. I wish the process could go faster to get on with making it look beautiful – but if we rush the external, what lies beneath could cause problems down the road. It is best to take the time to do it right. The finishing touches will happen quickly once the other work is done.

RENOVATIONS IN MY OWN LIFE

The ringing hammer and whirring saw blade have me thinking about renovations in my own life. I often express that I would like to become a better person, to renovate my character. Maybe I can become more patient, less judgmental, or wiser in my speech. I want the updated character and a more beautiful external appearance, but I often want it right now and don’t want to do the required work.

There is so much going on in my heart and mind that no one else can see, just like all the wiring and plumbing behind the walls. Some of my thoughts, habits, and actions need to be rerouted or rethought to allow wisdom and peace to be evident in my life.

For instance, if I want wisdom, I must ask the Lord for it, be in the Word daily, and give God space in my life to offer His wisdom. Practicing waiting on Him must become part of my foundation. This will take time.

If I desire a less judgmental spirit, I must take my thoughts captive and replace them with what I know is excellent and pure. I must allow the Holy Spirit to convict me when unhelpful thoughts enter my mind. I may ask someone I trust to hold me accountable in this area. Memorizing Scriptures like Philippians 4:8 could also help me with my thoughts:

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

To live in peace amid the worries of this world, I need to press into God’s promise for peace that passes my understanding, which can only be found by staying close to Him and bringing each worry before Him.

EVEN IN CHRONIC ILLNESS

Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. (2 Corinthians 4:16)

The above Scripture is precious to many with chronic illnesses. As I reflect on it today in relation to renovations, I am even more struck by the inward renewal it mentions. This renewal will require a willingness to make renovations in our lives – and though we may still be wasting away on the outside, God’s beauty can be reflected to those around us despite (or maybe because of) our illnesses.

I want this. How about you?

PRAYER

Father, thank You for being concerned with our hearts and minds and wanting to walk us through the renovation process. Please show us where we may need some work and guide us in the renewal process. May our lives be a beautiful reflection of You. In Jesus’ name, amen

QUESTIONS TO PONDER

1. Has the Holy Spirit brought some renovation work to mind for your life today?
2. Are you spending more time on external appearances than inward renovation work?
3. What scripture could you press into today?

AN INVITATION

If you check out Chronic Joy’s printable Ministry of Reconciliation, you may find some helpful ideas for renovation in your life.