The Need to be Kneaded

I'll admit it...I LOVE cookie dough! (O.K., I 'really enjoy' it.)

I like to put all the ingredients together, stirring in lots of chocolate chips, and then...to mix it all in really well, I reach in (clean hands, of course) and knead it.

Kneading--the process of "Working into a uniform mixture by pressing, folding, and stretching" and mixing is necessary for a well made cookie, cake, or bread.

...but what does the dough feel like? What to the ingredients experience? (I know, dough has no feelings...work with me here!)

Kneading has GOT to be tough on the dough! The ingredients are all being mashed together in a decidedly UN-comfortable way.

If it were possible, it might even be painful for them.

However, the ingredients will never reach their fullest, sweetest potential if they choose instead to remain comfortable in thier separate containers.

They have to submit to the kneading of the baker!

In the same way, if we are ever going to reach our fullest, greatest potential, we are going to have to submit to the 'kneading' of the Lord.

As the Scriptures say, "God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns." (Philippians 1:6)

But in our experience, like the dough, it can be tough.

The best thing for us to do? Submit to it, and let Him continue that work!

This past Sunday, dozens and dozens of KCCers responded by coming forward, indicating that they want 'revival' in their hearts and faith, their families, this church, and their country.

If that was you, I want to encourage you: SUBMIT YOURSELVES TO GOD!

Let Him continue His work in you! Let Him show you the parts of your life that need to change, and let Him take you to 'the next level' of faith!

Don't sit back, don't try to be 'safe, sound, and comfortable'.

If you want to be made into your 'fullest, sweetest potential', you need to let Him continue His work, and to willingly and enthusiastically go along.

You need to be kneaded!

And so do I!

Following Jesus...together,

Dave