Some of us, me in particular, get too soon old and too late smart. I have a lovely friend here in MN, Dorie, who years ago when we were much younger, said, "Just once I wish God would give me a reprieve from his lessons and just let me enjoy his company!" I doubt these words are exactly what she said, but the implication is the same. We can get weary of God imparting His goodness in us as it takes dramatic change, usually. But, the work it takes on our part is insignificant, compared to the gratitude felt after a transformation.
In the Bible passage 2 Cor. 3:18, we read: "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." This tells us what will happen, but it doesn't tell us why it happens or how it happens.
The Study Bible gives us a bit of help. "The glory that the Spirit imparts to the believer is more excellent and lasts longer than the glory Moses experienced (upon receiving the Ten Command-ments.) by gazing at the nature of God with unveiled minds, we can be more like Him. In the gospel we see the truth about Christ, and it transforms us morally as we understand and apply it. Through learning about Christ's life, we can understand how wonderful God is and what God is really like. As our knowledge deepens, the Holy Spirit helps us to change. Becoming Christ-like is a progressive experience. The more closely we follow Christ, the more we will be like Him."
Our work is becoming acceptable to being transformed, catching ourselves before we practice an old pattern, staying in prayer and closeness to God, trusting God is doing His work, and being thankful for the little changes you see and feel.
A few other things that may make the changes come faster and that is, one-- knowing what those changes might be by knowing what Jesus is really like. Reading the Gospels in the New Testament will tell you this, and the readings about Love in 1st Corinthians 13. Loving others in-spite-of is huge! Secondly, any way you see yourself as underprivileged or unloved, or as being treated unfairly is a good place to ask, "Does Jesus love me?" The answer to that is, "Yes," the bible tells us so. Third, wondering how to handle some sticky situation? Ask, "What would Jesus do?" Yes, I know, it's trite in the rest of the world, but it still will serve the Christian. You just don't need to tell the world, unless they should ask, which is unlikely!
I hope you enter upon this new phase of life with me. I would love to hear your questions or answers. I have been a Christian a long time, but not-so-much in the practical way of being involved in my transformation. I guess I thought it would happen by osmosis, but it takes a willing heart, I believe, and a humble attitude. Humility had not been my middle name, unfortunately! And that was the first place I had a transformation--when I recognized the need for a transformation of my own!
Full speed ahead on this mission! Thank you God!
Jo of MN, I hope a friend to all!
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