To Be More Like Him

And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.  2 Corinthians 3: 18

It’s another beautiful day at the beach, and once again, I am in awe of the work of God’s hand. But the inspiration for today’s devotion came not from the beauty of nature around me, but from His greatest masterpiece of all – and that is man Himself. He has breathed life into every human being and has made each one special for His own purpose. Today I took note of those amazing creatures around me. I did what many of us do from time to time – I watched people interacting with people!

Every individual is fascinating, and I am filled with wonder when I think of how He created so many distinct and different beings – with so many shapes and sizes, skin tones, personalities, talents and abilities, and unique characteristics that make each of us who we are. What an awesome Creator He is!

As I watched, it was intriguing to wonder what each individual’s life story is – what their situations are and what is most important in their lives. I thought of these things as I enjoyed watching families interacting, friends spending time together, children playing, and the flow of life in such a relaxing and happy environment. As I watched, I saw much laughter, many smiles, genuine kindness and concern, and much warmth and love! But we know all too well that life can’t always be so carefree and happy. We eventually have to return back to the real world and to the stresses of life. I wondered if they knew God and the assurance and hope He can give.

Then I began to wonder if anyone was watching me!  If we’re watching others from time to time, someone is probably watching us! Have you ever wondered what they see, and what they think of each of us when they see the real us in our day to day lives?  Do they see our kindness, our love for others, and more importantly, do they see our love for God?

We all have different versions of ourselves, depending on our circumstances, but gratefully, God loves and accepts us for who we are. Yet, as His beloved children, He desires to make us better – to transform us into better versions of ourselves. He wants to shape and strengthen our character, cleanse our hearts, give us more wisdom and understanding through His Word about what is truly important in this life, and more than anything, He desires to make us more into the image of Jesus Christ Himself.

He wants to use His Spirit in us to show us all the opportunities we have before us to love others and share His grace. If we let His Spirit work in us, He can transform our hearts, and make us more pleasing to Him.

This is what we should strive for  – to be more like Him. As He continues to mold and shape us, we will keep learning, growing, and changing, and hopefully we can become who He would have us be!  And when we stand in His presence and see His glory, hopefully, one day, we’ll see His glory reflected in us!

Prayer

Dear God, our Creator and Sustainer of life, we wonder at your goodness to us and thank you for the gift of life. May we be transformed by your Word and your Spirit in us to become individuals worthy of your love and grace. We give you all honor and glory. Amen