The budding phase
When we get saved, God starts the process of perfecting us into His image. It is a gradual, lifelong progression until we get to heaven, where our lives will then shine with the light of His glory.
I thought of this perfecting process when I took these photos of a magnolia flower, gradually opening over a period of days. Our tendency is to try to rush God’s perfecting of our character; we want instant results and get disappointed in ourselves when we mess up. He sees the finished product already. He knows that what He starts in us will one day result in a work of splendid beauty. Because of Christ in us, He will perfect that which concerns us. (Psalm 138:8) May you rest in comprehending this truth as you view the photos.
But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
Proverbs 4: 18
Just starting to open
Sprouting forth
Opening up
Nearly opened ~ this one is my favorite!
Glorious beauty
God is the finisher of our faith. Like me, do you struggle with fully accepting that your life has beauty? I pray that we each remember His perfecting work in us. Even though we mess up, and don’t see how anything good can come from our lives, God already sees us as His prized work of perfection.
Blessings, always
I’d appreciate the feedback about the photos! Thanks.
Sue Nash/ 2013
Heavenly Raindrops 
Sue,
It never ceases to amaze me how nature can clearly reveal to us many truths of God. Just like your photos show so clearly, the sanctification that we experience is a gradual process. The longer we live on earth, the more we should reveal Christ’s beauty and grace to those around us. This is a great blessing and challenge for those of us who call Jesus our Lord.
By the way, about the photos. Beautiful! And the different stages that you show clearly illustrate the theme of your lesson. I am envious of Christians, as yourself, with artistic talent. I certainly lack in that area. Thanks for taking the time to share these pics with us. They were a blessing. Lord continue to bless you!
Thanks so much, Rob. I call myself a work in progress with any of the talents God has bestowed. So much I have yet to learn. Kind of goes along with what I wrote, though! I love your depth in the Word, a talent even more vital than creativity with photos or art! Blessings, Sue
Gorgeous photos! Beautiful depth of field and lighting! What a wonderful illustration of God’s sanctifying work in our lives and a reminder of how He already sees us! Thank you, Sue!
I appreciate the compliment, especially coming from you, Rene. I love the beauty of God’s creation all around us! Thanks.
GREAT word and pictures too, Sue!! Thanks Bud…
Oh, Jane, my friend. Thanks so much!
Sue, I love the pictures as they help the words along beautifully!
Blessings ~ Wendy
I appreciate your feedback. Your work is so lovely!
I love the photos, and the way you tied them into our growth. When the petals open to reveal the gold center, it reminds me of the saints in their white robes, standing before God’s throne. Oh, what a day that will be!
\o/
I had not thought of that with the centers of the flowers symbolizing our white robes in heaven (and yes, a glorious day that will be). I love how the Holy Spirit already knew this when I took the photo, then revealed it to your heart! Thanks for sharing this lovely connection! blessings, always.
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Isn’t God so merciful ~always seeking to communicate to us the truth, the light, the way to all questions ! Friend ~ would you be willing to join a few writers for Christ and share your testimony in our group– The Christian Gazette ? You would really be an asset, please consider. Sincerely Debbie
I am on my way to church, but will be happy to look over the website and will let you know. Thank you for your kind remarks and for the invite! Blessings.
Where do I find the website for The Christian Gazette? thanks!
Wonderful post Sue and your photos are breathtaking! God’s designs are truly exquisite!
Thank you very much. God is amazing!
Thanks, 2 Cor 3:18 says, “But we all, with unveiled face, bejolding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.
Love how that verse fits the imagery I used! I am so amazed at God’s infinite wisdom and His beautiful creation. Watching the destruction going on again in OK, reminds me of how one day in heaven the enemy will never again bring destruction.