Parallels: Home and Spiritual renovation—Going back and fixing
(This is part of a series on what I learned through the process of renovating our home, and the parallels to a life yielded to and experiencing God’s work in renovating our life and spirit)
After the basement renovation project was substantially done, I noticed some problems with the new shower. The water temperature couldn’t be controlled—it was either too hot or too cold. At first, I suspected the cartridge seated in the valve assembly was defective, so I ordered a new one and installed it. When it still didn’t work properly, I knew there was a bigger problem with the valve assembly. I also knew replacing it would be a time-consuming job, but decided it was necessary and started the process of fixing it.
I installed the shower wall so that it could be carefully removed in case of repairs like this one. Once it was removed, the rough in plumbing was accessible, so I shut off the water supply, removed the old valve assembly, and installed a new valve and shower control. I tested it and was relieved that it worked perfectly, so I replaced the shower wall, caulked the seams, and repaired and painted the wall near the shower.
At times we must go back and work on something—a relationship, a wound, or something else— from the past that is still broken. Honestly sharing it with God in prayer is the first step in the process. God, in His infinite love for us, will lead us to the next steps in repairing and healing those areas of brokenness. This may require help from others, possibly even a professional counselor or trained pastor. When we yield to God and enter this journey, we can experience God’s healing that frees up the blocked places within, so His grace and love moves freely in and through us.
Recently God nudged me to seek out and rebuild a broken friendship from the past. When I contacted and met with this person, they revealed they felt hurt that I had not supported them in the career path they had taken. I listened carefully and told them I was sorry. Even though my actions were not intentional, I owned up to my failure in our friendship. Today we are making efforts to build a new friendship.
Repairing broken areas in our spiritual life can be time-consuming, but it is worth the effort. Sometimes the damage requires removing broken or defective areas and allowing something new to take place inside. Yielding ourselves to God in this process can feel scary, but remembering He loves us and desires only good for us helps overcome those fears. This is a verse I find helpful:
”So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
There is also a verse from the song “How Firm A Foundation” that bring God’s voice and promises to light when we are open ourselves to God in the broken areas of our life:
“Fear not, I am with you, Oh be not dismayed
For I am your God and will still give you aid
I’ll strengthen you, help you, and cause you to stand
Upheld by my gracious, omnipotent hand.”
I recently recorded my own version of this song, including a new chorus I wrote while going through a difficult time. I share it with you in the hope that it can remind you of God’s care and love. Here is the link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGiPg6Y9tBw
At times the hidden areas of our life need to be uncovered and dealt with. Once this is done, like a new shower, God’s grace can flow freely in and through us. Remember: God is always with you…and for you.
God bless you!
Chris Atkins