Lessons from Making Mayo (Back in the Kitchen 1)

I was recently preparing a batch of mayonnaise. Placing all the ingredients into the container, I then grabbed the immersion blender. When this long, stick blender is placed into the deep, narrow container and turned on, there is an immediate evidence of the creamy, white mayo, that will soon be completed. Continuing to blend for a few minutes creates wonderful, rich mayonnaise.
As I saw the initial white creaminess immediately appear at the bottom of the cup, I considered how foolish it would be to stop the blender at this point. All I would have would be some thick eggy mayo surrounded by oil. Although there was already evidence of the creamy finished product, more blending was required. With minor movements of this blender, there would soon be a beautiful, rich product that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
This simple act reminds me of God's work in our lives. He has placed all of the ingredients in us through our gifts, talents and past life circumstances. Then the Lord gets all in our business and stirs things up. Like the agitator on my stick blender, this process may not always be pleasant but will soon present evidence of His work and growth in us.

When we are born again, we will see the early signs of a complete change. “Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 AMP) As a new creation our spirit is completely transformed. This new inner man will quickly exhibit evidence of change in attitudes and ways of thinking.

When we see the first evidence of growth, it is not time to stop and admire what God has done. We are encouraged to “Like newborn babies you should crave (thirst for, earnestly desire) the pure (unadulterated) spiritual milk, that by it you may be nurtured and grow unto [completed] salvation.” (1 Peter 2:2 AMP) The evidence will increase as we begin to grow. We are then further encouraged continually, “But grow in grace (undeserved favor, spiritual strength) and recognition and knowledge and understanding of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (the Messiah). To Him [be] glory (honor, majesty, and splendor) both now and to the day of eternity. Amen (so be it)!” (2 Peter 3:18 AMP) Paul also encourages us. “Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts.”
(Colossians 3:16 AMP)

These actions will facilitate change in not only our ways of thinking, but in altering our core beliefs and developing strong character. We must continue to persevere under His mighty hand. Our new beliefs and character will be tested and tried. “Beloved, do not be amazed and bewildered at the fiery ordeal which is taking place to test your quality, as though something strange (unusual and alien to you and your position) were befalling you.”  (1 Peter 4:12 AMP) This was also promised by Jesus. “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]” (John 16:33 AMP) Testing will come and with it maturity.

The word of God and agitation of trials will continue to transform us. We can be not only at peace during this process, but also joyful. “Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. And endurance (fortitude) develops maturity of character (approved faith and tried integrity). And character [of this sort] produces [the habit of] joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation.” (Romans 5:3-4 AMP) We continue to follow Jesus. “And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:18 AMP) We grow into useful servants of God when we continue to welcome His work in our lives.

These beginning signs of spiritual growth will lead to a far greater beauty in us and nourishment for others. We simply allow God to fully develop each area of our lives. The start is wonderful, as is all the progress. The finished product will be exciting and beneficial to all who encounter us.

Continue to study and trust, allowing God to complete His plan. “And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.” (Philippians 1:6 AMP)