I’ve read that the word process means a series of actions, changes, or functions which bring about a result.

It could be the process of digestion, or the process of obtaining a driver’s license. It could be the process of photosynthesis, or the process of homogenizing milk.

The important part of any of these processes however, is the process itself! We tend to speed toward the results and miss the important steps in the process.

 

THE IMPORTANTANCE OF PROCESS

Results are good and even important, but if you skip the process, you get shaky – if any result at all! Every life that’s lived has results directly related to the process. I learned early on in my walk with God that the process is the most important part. It’s also the hardest part. It involves waiting. It exposes us. Often – requiring change. Revealing what we’re made of, providing opportunity for us to depend on God. That’s where growth happens that brings about positive results. 

The writing of my book,  After the Crash – Grieving with Hope in Light of Eternity has been no different. There would be no book if I hadn’t walked out the process for the past fourteen years. Not to mention the four years it took to write it. Being the impatient person I am, I have needed to change. I have learned to be patient with both myself, others, and the time it takes to change. It has required me to forgive both myself and others. First myself, for my lack of patience and trust in God during the process. Secondly, others for the disappointments I’ve experienced from putting my expectation in them rather than God.

LIVING OUT THE PROCESS

I’ve been reminded again and again during my waiting that it’s most important for me to live out what I’m writing than to simply be done with it. The latter producing only words—with no joy or power. The greatest result we can ever achieve is true joy, resulting from obedience, dependence, and patience, producing power to live a life of loving God and others. There are no short cuts. We must ‘live out the process’. 

As living letters, written by the Spirit of God, we are to be known by all. (2 Cor. 3:3). The process of our narratives provides us with countless opportunities to tell a greater story than our own, being read by many. 

The process of writing this book has unfolded as it’s own story. Living out each chapter in living color while calling out to God has deepened my dependence on Him. I know that what truly matters and is of eternal value, is glorifying God and touching other lives with His love. This can only be produced as we ‘live out the process’ in dependence on the ONE who knows the final result. 

What is your goal and how is your process bringing you there?

There was no beginning and there will be no end to God’s eternal love for you!

 Debbie L. Mayer