Ephesians 2:10

For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. -Ephesians 2:10

Wow! What a concept! Take hold of the first part of this verse, you are God's masterpiece!

When I think of a masterpiece, the first thing in my mind is art, especially sculptures. A sculptor works tirelessly to perfect a masterpiece. He chips away at it, one tiny piece at a time until it is exactly the way he wants it. Then he smooths it out so that it shines perfectly.

You are God's masterpiece! He will chip away at the things in your life that keep you from being more like Him, then he will smooth out the rough edges to make you shine.

God has a specific plan for your life. He wants to use you in a certain way to do His work on earth and bring Him glory. It is only after He has "sculpted" you to be more like Jesus that you will be ready for Him to use.

Sometimes the chisel of God will cause pain, but that pain is part of the process of growing. Never think though that the pain is a sign that God is mad at you or doesn't like you, for that is never true. God wants you to be the person He created you to be but He must get rid of the things you chose to cling to in this world. The pain that comes from having these things removed will never be as bad as the pain you will feel if you reach eternity without being who God wants you to be.