Have you ever noticed how easy it is to think more highly of yourself than what your actions reveal? It’s a common tendency—we all have areas in our lives where we feel more mature or developed than we truly are. The truth is, we all have shortcomings that expose our need to grow spiritually. Ignoring this truth leads to stagnation, but recognizing it keeps us moving forward in God’s plan for our lives.Jesus highlighted this dynamic in a parable about two sons in Matthew 21:28-32 (NIV): "What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work today in the vineyard.' 'I will not,' he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, 'I will, sir,' but he did not go. Which of the two did what his father wanted?" "The first," they answered. Jesus said to them, 'Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.’
This parable challenges us to reflect on the gap between what we say and what we do. It’s not about perfection—Jesus never uses conviction to condemn or shame us. Instead, His words aim to prick our hearts, challenge us, and inspire growth. If you feel that gentle “poke” of conviction, it’s a sign your heart is still tender and open to the Holy Spirit’s leading. That’s good news! It means God’s love is at work in you, urging you toward transformation.We all need change—every single one of us. Whether it’s dealing with anger, jealousy, unforgiveness, sexual immorality, or a lack of self-control, the Holy Spirit gently reveals the areas where we need to grow. As 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV) reminds us:"
And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit."Transformation is a lifelong journey. While we’ll never achieve perfection in this life, we can take comfort in knowing that our righteousness before God doesn’t depend on our efforts—it depends on Jesus. His sacrifice makes us spotless in God’s eyes, even as we continue to work through our flaws and imperfections. What a gift!Still, Jesus cares about those imperfections because they can hinder our blessings and limit our influence on others. That’s why the Holy Spirit convicts us—not to condemn us, but to help us grow into the people God created us to be.
Philippians 1:6 (NLT) offers this beautiful encouragement:
"And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns."
So, the next time you feel that “poke” from God, embrace it. It’s His loving hand guiding you in spiritual growth and transformation. Take time to reflect on the areas where He’s calling you to grow. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s help, and trust that God is faithfully working in you, step by step, to transform you into His likeness.This week, ask yourself: Am I living out what I say I believe? If not, let God’s grace—His supernatural help and guidance, fill the gap. His love is constant, His mercy is new every morning, and His Spirit is ready to guide you toward lasting change.
Colossians 1:10 (NIV) "And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God..."
Dear Lord God, please help me not to feel insecure when you are prompting my heart to make changes in what I say or do. Help me to pause, reflect, repent if necessary and receive your help to make the make the changes you are leading me to make. In Jesus name I pray! Amen
In His love,
Pastor Tim Burt
