Go Big AND Go Home…
You’re a Christian, so what’s your long-range goal now? It’s to become more like Christ!
The phrase “be more like Jesus” sounds daunting, right? But it doesn’t need to be. God’s Holy Spirit will help us cooperate with the work he wants to do in our lives. It is not as if we are striving on our own strength or capabilities to do something impossible. Instead, the goal of becoming like Christ is clear, and the Holy Spirit assists in the activities that accompany that goal.
For example, it is not my burden (thank goodness) to attempt to love people even though they irritate or hurt me. God promises that as I draw closer to Him and keep his word (the sword) at the ready, He will empower me to love people even when they irritate or hurt me.
There is comfort in this. On my own, I’m a miserable failure at mimicking Christ, however with his shoulder behind me and his words bolstering me up, I’m far better at imitating his character.
Consider this. The day that you became a Christian, God started His makeover plan for you. Although this restoration plan will take an entire lifetime to complete, God is up to the challenge and will continue to mold you and make you into His image. All you need to do is be pliant, flexible, and willing to allow his will in your life. The rest is up to Him.
- Philippians 1:6 “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” NLT
Exercise: Make a list of five ways you want to become more like Jesus. Each day, over the next month, ask God to help you. Check on your spiritual growth and see if you accomplished your five goals.
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…WALK IN THE WAY OF LOVE, JUST AS CHRIST LOVED US AND GAVE HIMSELF UP FOR US AS A FRAGRANT OFFERING AND SACRIFICE TO GOD.
EPHESIANS 5:2
