Don’t Just Survive the Messes of Life, Thrive

Flour and sugar sprinkled on the buttery concoction I was stepping in as I reflected on the truth of that statement. 

Indeed I am a messy cook. But the end result of my work is sugary and savory delectables and worth the mess. (And I always clean it up.)

Thriving through the Messes of Life

How reflective that is of our lives.

The mess of living is often unseemly. Our humanity mixed with the temptations of Satan can make our lives look less than appetizing. 

But for those who abide in Christ Jesus, God sweeps up the droppings, wipes up the spills, and spit polishes us shiny, in and through those messes. 

The end result of God at work in us is a reflection of Him worthy of serving to others. How delightful! 

The end result of God at work in us is a reflection of Him worthy of serving to others. Click To Tweet

So don’t get stuck in the mess you are. Rather open up your heart to the Lord and rejoice in the creation you are becoming through the transforming power, unfathomable grace, and unending love of the One who put you together in the first place. 

You don’t just have to merely survive the messes of life. Through the work of the Redeemer, you can thrive.

You don't just have to merely survive the messes of life. Through the work of the Redeemer, you can thrive. Click To Tweet

Reflection: What tips do you have for being a tidier cook … and a less messier follower of Jesus Christ? 

Linking up again this year with Ann Voskamp‘s 2014 Joy Dare. Find the linkup at A Holy Experience. Beginning where I left off in 2013. What a blessing! #2439–2459, read the entire list by clicking here.

• A mound of mess sorted and dispersed in the basement; Extended Christmas vacation for the kids–thanks weather; Guest posting
• Private joy to smile about silently; Hot chocolate with peppermint marshmallows; Boys lovin on their sister–boy style
• Sweet memories of dear loved ones gone–imagine what it’d be like with no memories of them; A son who takes much in stride–inspiring and maddening; You
• Warm water soothing cold hands; Depth of medical knowledge–never ceases to amaze me; A God who not just hears, but always listens
• Walks with my soon-to-be back-to-college son; Sweetness of a young man’s heart-felt nighttime prayers; Beauty of frosted trees
• Hearing Rachel use her 12 or so words, especially “Hi Mama!”; Something about the crunch of the snow on my walk; Joey’s outdoor antics
• Rach yelling “DD” in the store at the site of her bro; Sibling love–warms a mama’s heart; Pastor and Rachel having fun together at the soccer game