We have the freedom to choose

Perhaps you have noticed that God does a lot of the hard work of on our behalf.  This does not mean that we are passive observers waiting for God to suck out our shortcomings like a shop vac. 

Our undesirable habits hinder our ability to thrive.  They show up as faults, weaknesses, failings, limitations, obsolete survival skills and more.  They trigger guilt and shame.  They embarrass us. 

God wants us to live in peace, experience joy, purpose, meaning and satisfaction.  It should  be obvious that God is in agreement with us that these limitations need to go!  But here’s the other thing about God that is super important to keep in mind.

He is not like our codependent mothers, willing to go to any lengths to help us avoid the consequences of our actions.  He is not like our codependent fathers, who also go to any lengths to keep us from continuing down a self-destructive path.  He is not like our siblings or friends who pick up our tabs or let us crash on their new sofas because they are afraid we will die out in the world under a bridge.

God is not willing to go to any lengths.  He is only willing to go as far as you have invited him to travel with you.  He will NOT come in and over run your unwillingness.  He will not remove defects you are holding onto.  God has boundaries.  Your willingness is the key that unlocks the door that invites God in to do his work of removal and restoration.  God respects you enough to allow you to decide your readiness for transformation in your own timeframe. 

This is your choice and your responsibility.  How are you doing with the fine art of willingness?