UNPACK This...The Pursuit of Spiritual MaturitySample

Process Over Production

As one of the best college football programs in the country, Notre Dame always has high expectations for its team. Because of those lofty expectations, the Fighting Irish’s 4-8 record in 2016 was a big disappointment.

During the offseason following that poor campaign, head coach Brian Kelly wrote an essay on Yahoo Sports explaining many of the changes that occurred within the program. Although many aspects of the team needed to be adjusted, Kelly emphasized one key change that had taken place:

“I’ve put an emphasis on creating clear expectations on both the players and the coaching staff and making sure the message of process over production resonates on a daily basis.

“I was all about production last year and I saw where that got me. I’ve really enjoyed changing the process and approach this off-season, and I’m looking forward to seeing how that leads to production on the field this week.”

Kelly’s message of “process over production” has an important message for us. Football players must follow the coach’s process to get the results they’re looking for on the field. Production doesn’t just all of a sudden happen.

The same is true in our own lives when we’re following Jesus and becoming more like Him. It’s a “process” where we’re becoming more obedient, dependent, faithful, and holier.

The process of spiritual maturity is life-long, and the transformation in us takes place over time. But if we continue to surrender to the Lord, admitting our need for change while trusting His power at work within us, we will ultimately see fruit in our lives. This is the result of the “process.”

Paul explains in Philippians 2:12-13, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”

I’m Bryce Johnson, and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please help me to understand the process of sanctification and spiritual maturity while recognizing it’s You transforming me. Help me to admit my need for change, and to trust Your process of growing me. I believe the results and fruit will be there as I follow your ways. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.