Ephesians 4:13 (GNT)
Discipleship is the process of becoming like Christ. It’s a journey that will last a lifetime!
This is how it works: Every day God wants you to become a little more like him. As the Bible says, “You have begun to live the new life, in which you are being made new and are becoming like the One who made you” (Colossians 3:10 NCV).
Today, people are obsessed with speed. But God is more interested in strength and stability than swiftness. You might want the quick fix, the shortcut, the on-the-spot solution. Maybe you’re looking for a sermon, a seminar, or an experience that will instantly resolve all problems, remove all temptation, and release you from all growing pains.
But real maturity is never the result of a single experience, no matter how powerful or moving. Growth is gradual. The Message paraphrase says, “Our lives gradually [become] brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him” (2 Corinthians 3:18).
People often build their identity around their defects. You might even tell yourself you can’t change, saying, “It’s just the way I am.” The unconscious worry is that if you let go of your habit, your hurt, or your hang-up, you won’t know who you are anymore. This fear can slow, or even stop, your growth.
So how do you let go of those old habits and grow to be more like Christ? How do you conform your character to his? By developing Christ-like habits to replace those old habits.
Your character is the sum total of your habits—and habits take time to develop. You can’t claim to be kind unless you are habitually kind, showing kindness without even thinking about it. You can’t claim to have integrity unless it is your habit to always be honest. A husband or wife who is faithful MOST of the time is not faithful at all! Your habits define your character.
There’s just one way to develop the habits of Christ-like character: You have to practice them, over and over, until they become part of your identity. And that takes time!
But over time, you—and the people around you—will see the difference. As Paul urged Timothy, “Practice these things. Devote your life to them so that everyone can see your progress” (1 Timothy 4:15 GW).
Discipleship is the process of becoming like Christ. It’s a journey that will last a lifetime!
This is how it works: Every day God wants you to become a little more like him. As the Bible says, “You have begun to live the new life, in which you are being made new and are becoming like the One who made you” (Colossians 3:10 NCV).
Today, people are obsessed with speed. But God is more interested in strength and stability than swiftness. You might want the quick fix, the shortcut, the on-the-spot solution. Maybe you’re looking for a sermon, a seminar, or an experience that will instantly resolve all problems, remove all temptation, and release you from all growing pains.
But real maturity is never the result of a single experience, no matter how powerful or moving. Growth is gradual. The Message paraphrase says, “Our lives gradually [become] brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him” (2 Corinthians 3:18).
People often build their identity around their defects. You might even tell yourself you can’t change, saying, “It’s just the way I am.” The unconscious worry is that if you let go of your habit, your hurt, or your hang-up, you won’t know who you are anymore. This fear can slow, or even stop, your growth.
So how do you let go of those old habits and grow to be more like Christ? How do you conform your character to his? By developing Christ-like habits to replace those old habits.
Your character is the sum total of your habits—and habits take time to develop. You can’t claim to be kind unless you are habitually kind, showing kindness without even thinking about it. You can’t claim to have integrity unless it is your habit to always be honest. A husband or wife who is faithful MOST of the time is not faithful at all! Your habits define your character.
There’s just one way to develop the habits of Christ-like character: You have to practice them, over and over, until they become part of your identity. And that takes time!
But over time, you—and the people around you—will see the difference. As Paul urged Timothy, “Practice these things. Devote your life to them so that everyone can see your progress” (1 Timothy 4:15 GW).
Talk It Over
What old habit have you been hanging on to? How can you begin to replace it with a Christ-like habit today?
What is one character trait that you want to be known for?
Who in your life can help and encourage you as you work to develop that habit of Christ-like character?
- by Pastor Rick
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Prayer:
Father,
We come before You with humble hearts, longing to reflect the love and purity of Christ in all we do. Strengthen us when our spirit feels weak, and guide our thoughts, words, and actions so they honor You. Teach us patience when life tests our resolve, kindness when others wound us, and humility when pride tries to take root. Fill us with courage to choose righteousness over convenience, and grace to forgive as You have forgiven us. Daily, shape our hearts, so that our character shines with compassion, integrity, and truth. May our lives be a living testimony of Your goodness, drawing others closer to You.
In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen.
In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen.
