Tim Gunn's Make It Work for Christian Living

Tim Gunn, widely recognized from Project Runway and related programs, is famous for the phrase “make it work,” a directive that functions as a model for creative problem-solving and resourcefulness in any field ([49:30] - [50:16]).

“Make it work” transcends wardrobe adjustments and pattern corrections. It teaches the practical discipline of taking imperfect materials, limited time, or messy circumstances and transforming them into something effective and intentional. The phrase captures a mindset: evaluate what is available, prioritize what matters, and use ingenuity to bring a project to completion ([50:18] - [50:44]).

This mindset applies directly to Christian living. Entering a new year is an invitation to treat current circumstances and gifts as the raw material for faithful action. Rather than waiting for ideal conditions, Christians are called to exercise faith through the concrete opportunities and constraints they already possess, trusting that God’s presence and grace enable faithful outcomes ([50:46] - [52:14]).

Practical questions guide this application: How will faith be expressed in everyday decisions? How will spiritual commitments be incarnated in work, relationships, and service? How will the story of Jesus—his coming, acceptance, and faithfulness—shape daily priorities and actions? Embracing a “make it work” approach means answering these questions with intentional, creative obedience rather than passive hope ([51:48] - [52:44]).

Think of faith as a dynamic, hands-on practice. Use what is present—skills, relationships, time, and circumstances—to pursue faithful living now, not someday. The discipline of making it work cultivates resilience, creativity, and a visible outworking of belief in ordinary life ([49:30] - [52:44]).

This article was written by an AI tool for churches, based on a sermon from John Knox Presbyterian Church, one of 4 churches in Lincoln, NE