Transformation takes time.

Our salvation doesn’t come with an instant perfection switch. We still have a lot of overcoming to do. Many people accept that Jesus died so they’ll go to heaven, but they lack faith to trust Him for anything else. Plus, there will be a history of bad attitudes to let go of.

The good news is that God knows that and He is expecting us to go slowly. For I am sure of this very thing, that the one who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. (Phil 1:6) In other words, our new life in Christ is a process of being made perfect. God takes us as far and as fast as we’re able to keep up with.

Since we all walk at a different rate, we should not compare ourselves to other people. You don’t know how long it took them to get to where they are. And don’t beat yourself up if you feel human. There’s a reason for that — you are! Our complete perfection will not come until we get to heaven. In the meantime, there will mistakes and bad decisions made.

The important thing is to repent when you know you need to and look to God. His mercies are new every morning. That’s very good news.