In the world of architecture, the life of a project must pass through many “phases” in order to be suitable to enter into the construction field, to be built, and to “receive life.”
An idea may begin as something so simple and messy as a napkin doodle over a conversation at lunch. This doodle is then taken into the controlled environment of the professional where it is examined, rearranged, expanded upon, flipped sideways, and even stained by hot coffee.
Sometimes the idea or project dies before being fully formed. But, sometimes it comes to fruition. In the case of the latter, state and local officials require a licensed and approved architect of record to place his signature and seal of approval and authenticity on the drawings before they can be built.
And so it is with God, the great Architect. In His world, we are the project. Our lives must go through phases – ups and downs, bumps in the road, trials, troubles, and circumstances of all sorts. Some we call “good,” and others “bad.”
God knew us while we were still napkin sketches, undeveloped and unformed –
Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out;
you formed me in my mother’s womb.
I thank you, High God—you’re breathtaking!
Body and soul, I am marvelously made!
I worship in adoration—what a creation!
You know me inside and out,
you know every bone in my body;
You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit,
how I was sculpted from nothing into something.
Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth;
all the stages of my life were spread out before you,
The days of my life all prepared
before I’d even lived one day. (Psalm 139:13-16)
The phases of our lives are useful to shape us as God’s clay jars. God the Father is the author, Jesus is the artist, and the Holy Spirit is the agent, the One who “brings the project to life.”
The Bible teaches that any person who is a child of God has been sealed by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:30; 2 Cor. 1:22). God’s Spirit is His “signature of approval” on the life of a Christian.
As in the office of the architect, God’s seal is a sign of authority and truth, impressed not on paper but on living human hearts. The Holy Spirit is the guarantee, the promise of quality, and the sign of ownership. His presence in us demonstrates the genuineness of our faith, proves that we are God’s children, and secures eternal life for us. His power works in us to transform us right now, a foretaste of the fullness we’ll enjoy in eternity!
A great building has never been great by itself. It is great because of its architect. …just as the builder of a house has greater honor than the house itself. For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything (Hebrews 3:3b-4).
When I used to work with architects, I was often amazed that my boss was willing to sign, seal, and authenticate my drawings. I mean, I wasn’t the sharpest knife in the drawer. I admit it. Likewise, I still can’t get over how the God of the universe has placed His seal of approval on my life!!!! To Him, I am precious and valuable. This truth will never get old!
Reflect:
- Today, if Jesus is yours, would you thank Him for receiving His “stamp of approval!” Not that we are great, but we have a great God!
- Knowing your security in Christ, how can this truth liberate you to love someone else this week?
- Take some time this week to pray and reflect on the “proofs” of the presence of the Holy Spirit at work in your life.
Call us to make an appointment if you’re struggling with feeling accepted, valued, or secure. We understand, and we can help.