God is in the transforming business. Metamorphosis is the transformation seen as a caterpillar emerges as a butterfly. The pupa stage begins when hormones are secreted by the insect’s brain compelling it to attach itself to a leaf or twig and to shed its outer skin layer revealing hard skin, or its chrysalis, underneath.

Chrysalis comes from the Greek term chrysos meaning “gold” and is depicted by the golden sheen glistening from this hard skin. Inside this chrysalis, adult structures are formed and larval structures are broken down taking weeks, months, and sometimes even years; Monarchs take two weeks while Anise Swallowtails sometimes take years.

Some pupae are immobile and defenseless, but others are protected by ants, by toxic secretions, or by the ability to create sounds and motion scaring potential predators. Complete metamorphosis finally arrives. The butterfly softens its golden chrysalis and then slices it with forewing claws wiggling free, allowing the secretions in its wings to expand and harden them for its glorious debut.

God provides everything for the transformation. Just like a caterpillar, a believer’s transformation begins in the mind as the Word of God compels dying to self, shedding our will, and submitting to God’s will. Though process-time varies, you can be assured your chrysalis is a work of gold protected by your Creator and transformed for His glory!

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:2