AUG. 20, 2013
Image
Conscious
Read: 2 Corinthians 3:1-3, 17-18
We all . . . are being transformed . . . by the Spirit of the
Lord.
—2
Corinthians 3:18
When
going through old family photos, my cousins and I joke about which physical
characteristics we’ve inherited. We notice primarily the negative ones: short
legs,
crooked teeth, unruly cowlicks. All of us can easily identify in our
ancestors our own
least favorite body part. In addition to physical attributes,
we also inherited character
traits—some good, some not so good. But we don’t
always pay as much attention to
those.
According
to my unscientific observations, people try all kinds of methods to overcome
physical imperfections—exercise routines, weight-loss programs, makeup, hair
coloring,
cosmetic surgery. But instead of trying to overcome our character
flaws, we tend to use
them as an excuse for behaving badly. I suppose this is
because changing our looks is
easier than changing our character. But imagine
how much better off we’d be if we put
our energy into character development.
As
God’s children, we’re not limited by our genetic makeup. We can surrender our
flaws
to Him and allow Him to fulfill the potential He had in mind when He
created us as unique expressions of His love. The power of God’s Spirit and the
life of God’s Son are at work in
us, conforming us to His image (2 Cor. 3:18).
I know, Lord, that You’re more interested in the
condition of my heart than my outward appearance.
Please make me into the person You want me to be—
filled with kindness, patience, integrity, and love.
The Spirit develops in us the clear image of Christ.
Source:
Our Daily Bread 2012
