All, not some…

“His divine power  has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence.” 2 Peter 1:3

I do not know how to sew a garment. I can’t crochet or weave. Let’s just say that unless it’s a surgical needle, it doesn’t belong in my hands. But I’ve seen friends of mine create fabulous things from humble spools of thread. Moreover, I’ve been fascinated in my visits to historic mills that have made a mark in the weaving industry over centuries – places where fiber is transformed into lovely scarves, clothes, and tapestry.

I came across this thread wheel at Maison de Canuts in Lyon, France and thought about how it contains ALL the materials necessary for what needs to be woven. Each thread simply has to go through the loom, to produce silk scarves. Nothing is missing from this wheel. It has EVERYTHING and ready to go (or weave).

The bible says God has given us ALL THINGS in Christ, to live a life that glorifies Him. When He says “Come follow me”, He gives us the strength to follow. When He says “Be holy,” He gives the grace to pursue holiness. 2 Peter 1:3 is a great big message of hope. I keep my eyes on this passage when the enemy tries to tell me that disobedience is inevitable because I do not have what it takes to live a godly life. It is true that on my own, there is no righteousness to speak of. But in Christ, my loving Father has given me ALL THINGS to live for Him. Not just some.. but ALL. There is no element lacking. My God did not forget anything. Everything simply needs to go through the loom of transformation.

In His loom, I am not the weaver. I am the one being woven. I don’t have the right or the knowledge to say I need more blue or I need less brown. Nor should I question why He put so much gray. My Designer, my Lord, knows what He is doing. I don’t. My role is to believe and trust.

We’re talking about the God who made the universe and the Savior who loved (and continues to love) us enough to redeem us. Have we trusted in Him for salvation? Then we can trust Him for our sanctification. He has not left us without help. He sent forth His Spirit. In His loom, we behold His greatness and power as we yield to His wisdom in weaving our lives for His glory.

“And we all with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.” 2 Cor 3:18

Isn’t this exciting? Sinful men and women shall walk in righteousness more and more each day. Rebellious children will embrace obedience because of God’s power at work. And when it is God who is at work, we know that He will never drop the ball (or the spool of thread). He never leaves a task unfinished.

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Phil 1:6