SANCTIFICATION
So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image.
2 Corinthians 3:18 (NLT)
Paul describes sanctification as a gradual transformation accomplished by the Spirit as we behold Christ's glory. The Holy Spirit also makes us more and more like Jesus.
The Westminster Confession shares this idea: believers are more and more quickened and strengthened in all saving graces. This happens because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, as well as reading and studying the Bible, and is accomplished by the Holy Spirit that dwells inside followers of Christ.
This is a whole-person project. The Spirit’s work leaves nothing untouched. Yet while this reality of change happens over a lifetime, a remnant continues to war inside us to keep us just as we are. But because we are children of God and because of the Spirit’s work, we’ll prevail and continue to look more and more like the image of Jesus.
This is a cooperative project, but God strengthens us with the same power that raised Jesus from the grave. God supplies us with endurance and patience to see this project through. We should remember that if we are born of God, we have overcome the world (1 John 5:4).
APPLICATION: Today, reflect on what part of your life might resist the Spirit’s work. Is there a habit, attitude or desire you’ve neglected to surrender? Bring that area before God in prayer, acknowledging your dependence on the Spirit’s power. Remember that even the willingness to change is itself a work of grace.
PRAYER: Thank You, Father, for making me more and more like You every day. Help me avoid discouragement when I don’t see the growth I hoped to see. Help me recognize where You’re working and fully commit to a partnership with You. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?