In our microwave world that wants instant results, we must know its OK, perhaps even preferable to grow slowly. Let me encourage you today that if you feel you are moving at a snails pace, at least you eventually do laps around the person refusing to move off the couch. I know the temptation to believe EVERYTHING should have the capacity to be microwaved into completion circumventing the baking process, which is the result of our technological age. However, there are some things in life that technology will never be able to accelerate to fruition and get the sustainable results necessary for its function. One of them being – the maturation of the spirit, soul, and heart of a person.

2nd Peter 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
2nd Peter 1:8 For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Notice they are to be increasing and growing and not a onetime experience. People try a lot of shortcuts. Some look for an emotional experience — “If I just get this `certain experience’, then all my problems will be solved and I will be a mature Christian.” Other people say, “If I just go to this seminar…. If I just read this book… If I just listen to this tape…” A doctor cannot prescribe to me an instant pill to take for seven days and I’m going to be spiritually mature. It takes time. It takes an intentional pursuit. It won’t come automatically, instantaneously, or quickly.

Pointers to help in this process

Read the Word every day and meditate allowing the Holy Spirit to excavate the strata’s of God’s revelation for your life.

Remain patient in all things by permitting God’s Word to rule instead of emotions.
Understand the importance of digging deep and building a strong foundation for the future. The perceived drudgery in the now will turn into a sustainable and viable future.

The hard work put into the foundation gives opportunity for something beautiful to be built upon it.

Stop comparing your progress with those around you. You were not created to be a clone of someone else. You have been uniquely crafted for a specific purpose. If all you do is try to be like someone else, you will risk never being you and no one will ever know you existed.

When you stop trying to impress everyone, the more impressive you will become!
Don’t compromise your character or values in a quest for a quick fix. Good things are worth the wait… don’t settle for less when a little waiting gets the real prize.

Be grateful for the progress you have made so far. Be thankful and enjoy the journey. Don’t be so fixated on a place in the future that you never take notice to the beauty around you in the present.

Reach out and encourage others on their journey. Realize that the world is much bigger than you. When my world becomes bigger than me – my horizons broaden.
Remember that what seems like a long time now, will seem like a fleeting moment in the context of eternity.

Reuben Egolf

Unfortunately, people are remembered for the sum of their accomplishments but defined by their singular failure. Build such a life that is filled with integrity that your past failures are buried by the successes.