Romans 12:1-2 (HCSB) Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

Romans 8:28-29 (HCSB) We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose. For those He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers.

The ultimate goal in life for a Christ-follower is to become more and more like Christ in our actions, reactions, thought life....in everything!  Therefore, we as Christians need to understand that our God will allow us to visit one of three places to grow us to spiritual maturity: the garden, the desert, the cross.

1. The Garden - in the garden we experience trials and test which are designed by God to draw us closer to Him

2. The Desert - in the desert we experience temptations which are designed by Satan to draw us away from God.

3. The Cross - at the cross we experience trespasses which are designed by other people to teach us how to forgive and restore broken relationships.

Where are you right now?  Click here to listen to this sermon on my podcast.

Above picture: Botanical Gardens - St. Louis, MO.  f/2.8 @ 21 mm, 1/160, ISO 160