Definitely Not a D.I.Y. Project

Our purpose is God-given, not self-driven

After signing the last page in a very intimidating stack of legal documents, we were handed the keys to our very first home. Having seen practically every episode of “Trading Spaces” and “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” I declared myself ready, the newest, most ambitious member of the D.I.Y. Community! My husband’s hunting trip coincided with our remodel weekend, so he’d have quite the surprise waiting for his return.

If only my camera had captured the horror on his face! Professional scaffolds to reach the cathedral ceiling manned by his best buddy; two of my gals priming that dark 1970s paneling; and my personal favorite, a steamer encouraging old pineapple wallpaper to let go of her glory days. The beaming smile below my contractor’s hat slowly faded when Philip’s shock finally registered. I’m convinced I heard that loud vinyl scratch. Even the walls stopped breathing. I quickly decided to save the paint and supplies receipts for another day—or year.

The onslaught of Do-it-Yourself ideas and projects created a life flow all its own. So empowering; so transforming; so rewarding! We lived in a constant remodel phase for many months, and I ruined several shirts. Before it was all said and done, we’d acquired new skills and new confidence for painting tiled floors (for real), refinishing cabinets, replacing countertops, installing kitchen and bathroom hardware, and best of all, removing popcorn ceiling and wall texture.

In all of the remodeling, a deeper transformation began: the gift of forgiveness, healing of my body. This was where I painted my nursery before news of our 1st baby. I fell in love with a puppy named Chief at this address. And, we played in our first, REAL snow—that stayed on the ground! I’d love to say I discovered how my God-given talents finally fit into the “big picture” purpose, and that I’d arrived--never to worry, wander, or waiver again!

Everything about God points to purpose, order, and intention. From the Book of Leviticus, we read that dimensions and details for building and burnt offerings were in fact important. Nothing God commanded Israel to do was frivolous, wasted, or random. God always laid out the directions according to HIS purpose. He even GAVE the people their talents and knowledge to hammer out gold to form the rings on the poles to move the Ark of the Covenant. And where did this gold originate? Oh, God reserved the Egyptians’ gold, silver, and valuables for the Israelites. Imagine knocking on the enemy’s door only to be handed all their wealth AS you’re escaping—alive!

In Numbers, we discover that talents weren’t conjured up; they were just given. Each one GIVEN a specific duty for the care of the Temple. It wasn’t like freshman orientation where each Israelite declared his own major and signed up for trade school. (Jesus covering his forehead with his hand) His plan. His purpose. Everything for His good pleasure and glory.

Even now, that season of remodeling & make-overs still shouts redemption. The very idea of repurposing an outdated house or broken piece of furniture points me directly to our perfect Father. I am not in charge. I did not create myself or determine my talents.

Take a deep breath. “Not one word of all His promises has failed,” (1Kings 8:56) Such a relief! This is not your D.I.Y. Trust HIS remodeling process. If the Holy Spirit reveals certain details about His purpose, then so be it. If not, it’s still fine. Trust and go!

Reflection

1. In what areas have you tried to DIY your purpose?

2. How can you recognize the signs that you’re in DIY mode?

3. Are there any endeavors that you need to seek God’s direction or reconsider?

Goals

In what 3 areas of your present season do you feel equipped and lead to serve?

“You can be sure of this: The Lord set apart the godly for himself. The Lord will answer when I call to him.”

(Psalm 4:3 NLT)

“All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal”

(Psalm 199:160 NIV)

“Praise the LORD who has given rest to his people Israel, just as he promised. Not one word has failed of all the wonderful promises he gave through his servant Moses.”

(1 Kings 8:56 NIV)