Art and Mystery

God’s mission of restoration (which includes spiritual transformation) is more divine artistry and mystery than human planning, science, and methodology [Isaiah 55:8,9; Psalm 33].  Spiritual transformation is rooted in surrendering control to God, rather than a try-as-you-might, do-it-yourself process or knowledge.  Job is a valuable example in this case because Job was not transformed by his own efforts or by the answers God gave him but rather Job was transformed by God’s questions, which ultimately remained a mystery [Job 38-42]. 
 
Using Job as example, we see that it was not Job’s self-will and determination but Job’s circumstances that facilitated spiritual transformation.  Similarly, it is not our human determination that brings about transformation, instead we need to create (or allow for) conditions and environments in which spiritual transformation can take place.  A person can only monitor the atmosphere and environment to ensure it cultivates transformation (i.e. likeness to Christ, rather than self-actualization).  Environment conditions that cultivate transformation include prayer, scripture meditation, and practices (often called spiritual disciplines) that enhance intimacy with God.