Picture a master sculptor working with a cold, solid block of hardened granite. No matter how much pressure the artist applies, the hard stone refuses to yield, bend, or reshape. Under harsh force, it will only crack or shatter into pieces. But when the sculptor works with soft, moist, pliable clay, the material moves fluidly under the craftsman's fingers, transforming easily into a stunning, valuable piece of art. During our time in active addiction, our hearts grew cold, hard, and stone-like as a defense mechanism against emotional pain, disappointment, and fear. But a heart of stone cannot love, feel genuine peace, or yield to God's tender guidance. Becoming ready for God to remove our character defects means surrendering that hard, stony shell. When we become completely willing to let go of our old self-protective defenses, God softens our hearts into pliable clay, renewing our spirit and shaping us into a living masterpiece of His grace. | 
