Becoming More Like Jesus

..but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen. II Peter 3:18

God has a plan for every life, and salvation is just the first step. He wants His adopted children to develop a close “family resemblance.” The Holy Spirit is in charge of transforming us into the likeness of Jesus.

The moment that we trust Christ as our personal Savior, we are, in a spiritual sense, newborn babies, and we need to be fed continuously for growth in godliness. Our primary source of food is God’s Word. As we take it in, our old way of thinking—which aims to gratify self above all else—will be replaced by a God-centered mindset. The Spirit uses scriptural truth to replace self-absorbed thoughts and actions with an appreciation for who we are in Christ and a desire to glorify God through obedience.

Meditating on the Word is essential for spiritual growth. We must also be willing to assume responsibility for our mistakes and bring them before the Lord. First John 1:9 teaches us that if we confess our sins, He will forgive us and help us resume right living. He will also show us which of our habits and practices are displeasing to Him. His desire is that we turn away from all such behavior and grow into mature Christians. Our Father expects us to make the necessary changes in attitude, behavior, and lifestyle to conform to Christ’s image.

Renewing our minds, admitting mistakes, and making changes are requirements for spiritual growth. Are you being nourished by God’s Word every day? What changes have you made this year to be more like Jesus?

Thank You, Lord, for Your Word that shows me how to live. Help me to grow into the person that You want me to be. Forgive me for my actions that are displeasing to You. Help me to conform more to the image of Jesus. I praise You and I love You! In Jesus' Name~Amen