There are aspects of our personality and character that are not in themselves sinful, and I believe God is able and desires to change these natural tendencies as well. One trait I have observed in myself is I tend to be a "destination" person, focused on completing a task without any appreciation of the journey at all--especially if there are delays, obstacles or setbacks. I have observed God in the Bible as being One who redeems long, time-consuming journeys of sanctification. Jesus was not in a hurry like I can be; God does not expedite troubles or immediately bring resolution. He allows the righteous to suffer for a long season, and He allows the wicked to prosper for decades. While I look for the satisfaction of a job done, God is doing a job through the process that is greater and better than my efforts and aims.
Over time the LORD has opened my eyes to the benefits of relishing the journey as well as accomplishing a task. I believe I appreciate my journeys more than I used to, but I confess I still tend to want to just reach the destination as quickly as I can to move on to what I would rather do. Rather than being disappointed with my lack of progress, I am encouraged the LORD opened my eyes to realise the benefit of the journey and my desire and intention to appreciate the journey more. Even in this journey patience from the LORD is required to keep from giving up when change does not come easy. Knowing God has created me to be me is coupled with the knowledge He wants to transform me too--and He has the power to do in all aspects of my personality and character by His grace.
Because God is good, the sanctifying changes God desires to accomplish in our lives are also for our good. Life is trying and change is hard, but Jesus promises His disciples His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Let us be patient with the changes God is doing in others and humble ourselves to walk in His grace as He changes us. Has it ever occurred to you God desires to change how you naturally are--even concerning personality traits that are not expressly sinful in themselves--to lead you to humble yourself, know Him, rely on Him and resemble Him more? Do not lose heart when progress is painfully slow or when you suffer setbacks, for God is with us on this sanctifying journey He has masterfully designed. Psalm 27:14 says, "Wait on
the LORD; be
of good courage, and He shall strengthen your
heart; wait, I say, on the LORD!"