Dear Church,
 
Discipleship is God the Holy Spirit working in us to become more like Jesus Christ.  This is a lifelong process.  Every day when you wake up, remember, God wants you to become more like his son Jesus Christ.  As the Bible says, “and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” (Colossians 3:10)

We live in a culture where people want everything, now.  We think one more ‘powerful’ sermon, ‘life changing’ book, ‘compelling’ conference can bring in that Christlikeness like the flip of a switch.  We want a quick fix, shortcut, and on-the-spot solution.  Real, lasting, and visible maturity in Christ is never the result of a single experience, no matter how powerful it may be.  The Bible says in 2 Corinthian 3:18, “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate^[a] the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

Sometimes our old habits, our past hurts and mistakes are hard to let go of and we often build our identity around these past traumas.  You might even tell yourself, that’s just the way I am.  So, how do we let go of our old identity and grow to be more like Christ?  By surrendering our lives, daily to His Spirit who works in us.  The Holy Spirit helps us exhibit Christ-like habits to replace our old habits.  Keep practicing them again and again, until it becomes part of who you are.  As Paul urged Timothy, “Practice these things. Devote your life to them so that everyone can see your progress.” (1 Timothy 4:15)

Be Encouraged,
Mathews