C.S. Lewis’s imagery of the old, rickety house being torn apart and rebuilt by Jesus captures the essence of how God transforms our hearts and minds when we surrender to Him. At first, we may expect small improvements—perhaps a patched roof or a coat of paint. But when God starts tearing down walls, ripping out foundations, and overhauling the entire structure, it can feel disorienting. Why would He disrupt the things we’ve grown accustomed to? The answer, as Lewis explains, is that God isn’t interested in remodeling us into something merely functional. He’s building something extraordinary—a palace, a dwelling fit for His presence.
This brings to mind the analogy of the Ship of Theseus by Plutarch. The Ship of Theseus was an imaginary ship that was completely replaces plank by plank, and in the end Plutarch asked “is the ship of Theseus still the ship of Theseus.” Imagine yourself as that ship, with each plank, mast, and sail representing your values, beliefs, and identity. Over time, God begins replacing the worn, broken parts—the worldly patterns of thinking, selfish desires, and false priorities—with something new, better, and aligned with His truth. As the process continues, you might wonder if you’re even the same person anymore. The answer is both yes and no. You’re still you, but now rebuilt by the Master Craftsman, with a heart and mind tuned to Him.
In Kenny Chesney’s song “Better Boat” he speaks to this same transformative process. The song reflects on resilience, surrender, and finding peace amidst struggle:
“I’m learning how to build a better boat.”
I don’t know if Kenny ever read Plutarch, but he hits the same notes, or at least the same key. This process of rebuilding isn’t always smooth sailing. It involves storms that expose our weaknesses, forcing us to lean on God’s strength. Like Chesney’s lyrics suggest, building a “better boat” requires letting go of old habits and mindsets that no longer serve us and embracing the new habits and mindsets God provides—faith, hope, and a deeper reliance on Him.
Just as God led Abraham, Moses,Joshua, Joseph, Peter, Paul and all the apostles to a future far beyond what they could imagine, He also rebuilt their “houses, and boats.” He does the same for us. But this requires total surrender, allowing Him to tear down the old and rebuild us into something completely new. Romans 12:2 reminds us of this:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
In God’s hands, the rickety cottage of our lives becomes a palace. The ship of Theseus becomes a vessel fit for His purpose. The broken boat becomes stronger, ready to navigate life’s storms. When we trust Him with the process, we find that His plans far exceed anything we could have imagined.
