Romans 12:2 (AMP)
2 And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be [a]transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].
I am always amazed at Jesus and how he lived his life here on earth every time I read the gospels. The way he interacted with people they way the power of God flowed through him and what he was able to accomplish. His approach to life and the way he solved problems is just amazing. Sometimes I wonder how it would have been like to be alive when he walked the face of this earth and to see and experience all that he did.
The amazing thing is that God has extended his gift of righteousness through Christ to us so that we can be transformed to be like Jesus. In fact Jesus himself said to his disciples that greater works than this shall you do. Yesterday we talked about the goal of being transformed which is to be like Jesus, to be conformed to his image, now who would not want that?
Through the mercies of God we are set free from sin, and through Christ we gain eternal life. Not only that, but through Christ we have also been given power to overcome the enemy of our souls. We are set free from the wrath of God and we have peace with him, talk about motivation to be transformed.
The only other alternative we have a part from being transformed to the image of Christ is to be conformed to the patterns of this world. Now that is a life of slavery and bondage to sin. It is a life filled with frustration and defeat, a life that eventually leads to eternal damnation, who in their right mind would run after that?
The realization that we are headed for eternal ruin and death but God has provided a way out for everyone who is willing to embrace his plan for salvation should be motivation enough for all but sadly it is not. This is due to ignorance and deception from the enemy.
May you and I bring glory to the name of Christ as we allow him to transform us into his image and likeness.
