Working in layers
We start out with a few simple colors, then slowly -- one layer at a time -- our lives develop into a stunning masterpiece.
If you're going to create a painting, you won't start with every bit of color on your palette. You'll start with the background, then work your way forward, one layer at a time. Don't assess the beauty or value of the painting by what the first layers look like. Work your way forward, adding more detail and highlights as you go.
This is the same way God works with us. We start out with a few simple colors, then slowly -- one layer at a time -- our lives develop into a stunning masterpiece.
How I love this analogy and its simple, yet rich imagery. You can take it even further and think about the time you have to allow for layers to dry, the blending of colors, and the ability to go back to smooth out rough spots.