“…looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing
of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ
who gave himself for us that he might redeem us
from every lawless deed AND purify for himself
his own special people, zealous for good works.”
Titus 2:13-14

Christ gave himself for us not only to keep us from hell, but also that he might redeem us from sin and purify us. It’s not our work, trying to achieve sinlessness is impossible, no mortal man can reach the demands of the law of God. But as we walk closely with him, surrendering ourselves and every facet of our lives to him, HE purifies us — day by day, story by story, “from glory to glory,” because we are his own special people.

If you get discouraged with the seeming slowness of the process, remember this — when you plant a seed you don’t then kneel down and wait to see the growth. You simply know that what was planted will grow imperceptibly for awhile but will eventually reach maturity. And so it is with us – a seemingly imperceptible work, but surely taking place and will eventually produce its fruit as long as we remain “in Him” who is the life, and the outworking of his Holy Spirit within us.

Don’t be discouraged. Don’t focus on the seemingly slow process. Abide in him, and he will do the rest.

Also – remember that every one of us has not reached maturity yet, so be merciful in how you judge others.