Some of those who enjoy do-it-yourself projects are true DIYers. These people, like my husband, have the perfect combination of creativity and skill. They have the ability to visualize a project, and they possess the practical know-how to realize that vision. With their experience in using their tools and materials, they are able to create some remarkable products.
As for the rest of us, we amateur DIYers can only aspire to such levels of natural craftsmanship. The truth is that most DIY projects are not actually things that the majority of us can do all by ourselves. Oh sure, we may be the ones holding the staple guns and paintbrushes; but before we pick them up, we have to first watch tutorials, read blogs, and sometimes ask the orange apron-clad folks for help in finding all our materials. And even after all this, our—ok, MY—projects often end up being on the more rustic side of shabby chic.
As crafty and creative as any of us may be though, there is no such thing as a DIY Christian. Just as there was no way to earn salvation through our own power, there is no way that we can live the Christian life and be truly Christ-like on our own.
1. We need godly counsel.
There is safety in counsel, for both the DIYer and the Christian. One of the smartest moves that we can make is to seek advice from those who have already accomplished what we’re attempting.
2. We need godly examples.
Where would we amateur crafters be without tutorial videos? Being able to see another person’s initial planning, creative process, and final product is often essential to our being able to reproduce it. The same is true in the Christian life. We can learn much by watching seasoned men and women of God who have been where we are, and who have lived their lives for His glory.
3. Most importantly, we need God.
Our Lord is the original Creator. Sometimes our pride and sin nature delude us into thinking that we can build something on our own or for ourselves; but in order to ever make anything worthwhile out of our lives, the Maker of heaven and earth has to be central to our plans. How arrogant we often are, to think that we are capable of creating anything in our own power! It’s only by trusting the Master—for He has the skill, the experience, and the vision we lack—that we can ever build anything that will last.
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Lauren Morris, GSBC Professor
Mrs. Lauren Morris is a graduate of North Valley Baptist Schools and Golden State Baptist College. She is an integral faculty member of her college alma mater and is responsible for training the next generation in the subjects of English, education, and music. Mrs. Morris is also heavily involved in the music ministry of North Valley Baptist Church and has been faithfully serving on staff for many years.
As a handyman by trade now, I totally understand the perspective….excellent example that we cannot do anything apart from God.