The Word for Today

by Bob and Debby Gass

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‘…we become more and more like Him.’ 2 Corinthians 3:18 TLB

Spiritual growth could be compared to a seed, a building, and a child. Each requires our participation. When planted, seeds must be watered, fertilised and protected. When erected, buildings must be maintained. When born, children must be cared for, taught and disciplined. Getting the idea? Now, effort has nothing to do with your salvation, but it has everything to do with your spiritual growth. You can’t just sit around and hope to evolve into spiritual maturity. Paul explains our three responsibilities in becoming more like Christ:

(1) Deciding: ‘…throw off…your former way of life, which is rotten through and through…’ (Ephesians 4:22 NLT) We must decide each day to let go of our old ways. (2) Renewing: ‘…do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…’ (Romans 12:2 NKJV) The Greek word for transformed is ‘metamorphosis’, which describes the amazing way in which a caterpillar morphs into a butterfly. It’s a picture of what happens when we spend time in prayer, feed on God’s Word and allow Him to direct our thoughts. As we take on the beauty of Christ’s character we begin to grow and soar to new heights. (3) Clothing: We must clothe ourselves each day with the character of Christ. How do you do that? By developing new habits. Your character is made up of the sum of your daily habits. What you do, you become! So, ‘…put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.’ (Ephesians 4:24 NIV) To become Christ-like you must commit yourself to doing these three things.

SoulFood: 1 Cor 15-16, Matt 3:1-10, Ps 116, Pr 31:30-31

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