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 Growing in Christlikeness (March 21, 2023)

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18)

As new creations who have been redeemed by grace through faith in Christ, we should be seeking daily to nourish ourselves spiritually and be intentional in our efforts to nurture a deeper, more intimate personal relationship with our risen LORD. This process requires that we humble ourselves before our heavenly Father’s throne of grace and yield our hearts to the power of God’s indwelling Holy Spirit as we are progressively transformed from inside out into the character and likeness of His Son Jesus Christ over the course of the rest of our earthly lives. As challenging as it is in an ungodly world, we must strive to develop certain habits that Scripture assures will facilitate our maturity as Christians. In the busyness of daily life, believers must seek to center their lives on Christ, not the world!

Let’s incorporate into our lifestyles these faith-renewing practices that come to mind. May we immerse ourselves in the absolute truth of God’s inspired Word! Jesus prayed for us, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” (John 17:17) Often converse with God in heartfelt prayer, always offering praise and thanksgiving even in the midst of hardships and trials! “Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) Rely fully upon God’s power, not our own inadequate human strength! “For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, ‘Fear not, I will help you.’” (Isaiah 41:13) Forsaking pride, seek to express our adoration by humbly walking in obedience to God’s will! Our Savior said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” (John 14:15)

Behold the blessing of God’s beauty as reflected in His magnificent creations! “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well.” (Psalm 139:14) Abide in God’s peace that transcends human understanding! Jesus assured, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27) Abound in God’s matchless love and pass it forward by the way we live to serve others, magnifying His glory! Bathe in God’s amazing grace, rejoicing always in His salvation which is secure and everlasting! “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8) Have a blessed day, fellow believers, growing in Christlikeness!



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