From the Inside Out

‘Ever watch home-makeover shows? I especially enjoy those where designers and their teams tackle old, dilapidated wrecks, with the goal of preserving as much original charm as possible.

And while they describe the process, you can hear the passion in their voices for the work they do.

Often they must remove dumpsters full of garbage, old appliances, and demolition refuse. Substandard wiring and plumbing have to be replaced, and sometimes even the foundation needs shoring up.

The designer also searches the home for such treasures as original doors, old fixtures, or hardware that can be restored.

Some walls are covered with faded, grimy wallpaper, causing a depressive atmosphere. What a difference when the paper is removed and replaced by a pastel shade of paint. The room radiates cheer.

For weeks the team repairs, rejuvenates, and re-beautifies in order to “return the home to its former glory.”

And when the project is complete, the previous eyesore is transformed into an eyeful of delights: refinished floors, gleaming woodwork, glittering chandeliers, and more.

A house that once appeared ready for the wrecking ball has been revived, ready to stand strong for another hundred years.

Like the attentive designers overseeing such projects, God too is an attentive Designer, overseeing projects of his own: you and me.

Although we may not be so dilapidated that we’re dreadful wrecks of humanity, all of us have to admit: there’s the grime of sin dingy-ing up the walls of our souls.

There may also be a sense of outdated faith because we’ve not paid much attention to God lately. Or we need the Designer’s help to remove substandard habits in favor of those that revitalize our spirits—less screen time and more scripture time, for example.

Genuine transformation only happens when we’re immersed in the grace and truth of God’s Word.

Denise J. Hughes, Deeper Waters, 215.

The Bible has much to say about our Designer’s work. For example:

Our Designer Revives

As you read that verse, do you hear the passion in his voice? Imagine: The God of heaven desires to dwell within us. Our part is to invite him to do so, with a repentant and humble heart.

Then, as he moves in God breathes new life into our spirits—new life that includes unsurpassed peace and pure joy through his Son, Jesus [1].

That’s not to say we never experience discouragement, pain, or crisis. But as we rely upon God, he shores up our foundation of faith and strength.

One morning years ago I confessed to my early morning prayer group that ongoing frustration at school plagued many of us on the faculty. Betty prayed for me.

Minutes later as I drove to school, God took my breath away with his artistry as shimmering sunbeams reached heavenward from behind great billowing clouds.

It seemed the glory of God was right there, just beyond that cloud bank. And I could almost hear him say, “You’re going to be fine—I’m right here to help you!”

I felt revived and ready to face the day.

Our Designer Restores

He restores my soul.

–Psalm 23:3 ESV

On a tour of antebellum homes in Charleston, South Carolina, we watched an artisan painstakingly remove layers of old paint from an intricately-carved fireplace surround–paint so thick it had obliterated the full beauty of the design.

Over our lifetimes, we can accumulate layers of erroneous thinking, harmful habits, and guilt. Underneath, however, are the people God created us to be–people intricately designed for purpose, to reflect “the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit,” and intended to enjoy his shalom [2].

Our Designer Renews

Be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.

–Colossians 3:10b NLT

No doubt, when homeowners plan extensive renovations, they choose their designer carefully, wanting someone who’s congenial to work with, helpful, and trustworthy.

Imagine a designer who’s also encouraging, patient when faced with dozens of questions, and respectful of everyone. Such conduct wields positive influence on those around her.

One who is righteous is a guide to his neighbor.

–Proverbs 12:26a ESV

Our Creator-Designer manifests all the above-mentioned traits and more. As we spend time with him through His Word, we find ourselves growing to be like him in our thoughts and attitudes, actions and reactions.

We experience renewal because:

Hallelujah!

[1] 2 Corinthians 5:17

[2] 1 Peter 3:4; Philippians 1:6;  https://www.preceptaustin.org/shalom

Image credits: http://www.stocksnap.io; http://www.pexels.com (landsmann); http://www.stockcake.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.freerangestock.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.flickr.com

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