Day 22 - Created To Become Like Christ

God knew what He was doing from the very beginning.  He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love Him along the same lines as the life of His Son...  We see the original and intended shape of our lives there in Him.

ROMANS 8:29 (Msg)

We look at this Son and see God's original purpose in everything created.  

Colossians 1:15 (Msg)

"In all creation, only human beings, are made 'in God's image.' ...some of the aspects includes: Like God, we are spiritual beings - our sprits are immortal and will outlast our earthly bodies; we are intellectual - we can think, reason, and solve problems; like God, we are relational - we can give and receive real love; and we have a moral consciousness - we can discern right from wrong, which makes us accountable to God." p171-2

"What does the full "image and likeness" of God look like?  It looks Like Jesus Christ!  The Bible says Jesus is "the exact likeness of God,' 'the visible image of the invisible God,' and 'the exact representation of His being'."p172

"God's ultimate goal for your life on earth is not comfort, but character development." p173

"Many Christians misinterpret Jesus' promise of the 'abundant life' to mean perfect health, a comfortable lifestyle, constant happiness, full realisation of your dreams, and instant relief from problems through faith and prayer.  In a word, they expect the Christian life to be easy.  They expect Heaven on earth.

This self-absorbed perspective treats God as a genie who simply exists to serve you in your selfish pursuit of personal fulfilment.  But God is not your servant." p173

"...in the New Testament we are told to 'make every effort' in our growth toward becoming like Jesus.  You don't just sit around and wait for it to happen." p175

"Spiritual maturity is neither instant nor automatic; it is a gradual, progressive development that will take the rest of your life." p176

God is far more interested in what you are than what you do.  We are human beings, not human doings.  God is much more concerned about your character than your career, because you will take your character into eternity, but not your career. p177

"...many believers have abandoned living for God's great purpose and settled for personal fulfilment and emotional stability.  That is narcissism, not discipleship.  Jesus did not die on the cross just so we could live comfortable, well-adjuested lives.  His purpose is far deeper: He wants to make us like Himself before He takes us to Heaven.  This is our greatest privilege, our immediate responsibility, and ultimate destiny." p178

Point to Ponder: 

I was created to become like Christ.

Verses to Remember: 

"As the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like Him and reflect His glory even more." 2 Corinthians 3:18b (NLT)

Question to Consider: 

In what areas of my life do I need to ask for the spirit's power to be like Christ today?