As you read this you might start thinking, “Ha! I figured this out long ago! What took you so long?” Oh well, my prayer is that this little post will encourage those who are beginning to understand just like me.

A couple of blog posts ago I wrote about the layers to life and how life is more meaningful as we reach its deeper layers. Last night at the ladies’ Bible study my church offers I realized that there are spiritual layers within the layers of daily living. All that we do and experience are designed to refine the Christian’s character and make that person more like Christ. The things that matter so deeply to us are actually only tools to shape us. They can be as mundane as housework or as impacting as relationships.

Keeping my house tidy and clean is a significant aspect of my week. When I am not able to do it how and when I plan to, I become frustrated and anyone who happens to be a part of the delay or disruption bears the brunt of my frustration. This reaction of mine is not godly and therefore God is going to use my housework as a means of teaching me grace, flexibility and patience.

Relationships are another instrument in the Master Molder’s hand. Each relationship connected to us has different dynamics and expectations that stretch and grow us as they clash with our wants and needs. Once again, the clash is a catalyst God uses to reveal areas in our character that need work.

This thought may seem simple enough, but I can honestly say that it has refreshed my perspective on life. I think I will feel more open to the changes and interruptions in my day as I wait expectantly for God to make my heart more like His. Suddenly what seemed major to me is minor in light of the deeper work being done in me: the temporal versus the eternal. I appreciate the many ways one can lead a life of simplicity. Focusing on the Creator’s vision more than on the Creator’s tools is one of those ways.