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Why Is It Taking So Long?

[A]nd have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
Colossians 3:10

God could instantly transform us, yet He’s chosen to develop us slowly. Why? Because: (1) We’re slow learners! Often we have to learn the same lesson 50 times over in order to get it. We think, “Not again. I thought I’d already learned that!” But God knows better. The history of Israel illustrates how quickly we forget and revert to our old patterns. We need repeated exposure. (2) We’ve got a lot to unlearn! Your problems didn’t develop overnight and they won’t disappear overnight. There’s no pill, prayer or principle that’ll instantly undo years of habits. It requires the hard work of removal and replacement. (3) We’re unwilling to face the truth humbly! And our unwillingness keeps us living in denial. Only when we allow the truth to shine into our hearts can we begin to work on ourselves. That’s why we cannot grow without a humble, teachable attitude. (4) Growth is scary! Though our old ways are self-defeating, we fear letting go of them because, like an old pair of shoes, at least they’re comfortable and familiar. Some of us even build our identity around our old ways. We say, “It’s just the way I am”. Our unconscious worry is, ‘If I let go of my habit, hurt or hang-up, who will I be’? There’s only one way to develop the habits of Christ-like character; you have to practice them - and that takes time! Listen: “Practice these things, devote your life to them so that everyone can see your progress.” (1Timothy 4:1)

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me let go of my old habits so that you can transform me and mold me into the person you created me to me. Give me patience in the process. In Jesus’ Name, Amen