The key to our spiritual growth is simple. Submit therefore, His workmanship we are. We can’t do anything to make ourselves more spiritual. We can only submit, follow, and obey.

Submit therefore, His workmanship we are

Hopefully, I have your attention. After we realize that our character is the Lord’s focus, and that becoming like Him is the goal, the result mustn’t be frantic effort and self-effacement. Not only is it a waste of time, but this effort diverts us from the true focus of our lives. The drive must be to draw close to Jesus and give Him permission to do whatever’s necessary to make us able to be one with Him.

This results in that dreaded place of discipline and discipleship. Remember the words of the writer of Hebrews:

“You have not yet resisted to bloodshed while striving against sin. And you have forgotten the exhortation addressed to you as sons: “My son, do not despise the discipline from the Lord, nor grow weary when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and scourges every son whom He receives.” Endure discipline; God is dealing with you as with sons. For what son is there whom a father does not discipline? If you are without discipline, of which everyone has partaken, then you are illegitimate children and not sons.” ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12:4-8‬ ‭MEV‬‬

Yes, it applies to daughters also. Strong’s allows: “the exhortation addressed to you as children, ‘My child,…” Ephesians 2:10 flatly states, “…we are His workmanship…”

Troubles bring growth… IF

The Lord commonly uses the normal troubles of living on earth to enable us to see the ugliness in ourselves. When we agree with His assessment and ask Him to do with us as He wills, He can transform that area of ugliness into part of His likeness and an attribute of beauty in our character.

Often we simply submit ourselves to Him “in fear and trembling” as He enables us both to will and to do His great pleasure. He enables as we submit. This is finding the joy of His easy yoke and light burden. Accept His yoke and He works everything for good in your life.

Then you write that book of power and transform your readers. He provides the anointing to back up your words as you walk with Him, submitted to His lordship.