The ultimate goal of the Christian life is not church attendance, theological knowledge, or ministry activity. It's transformation into the likeness of Christ. "For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son" (Romans 8:29). This is God's eternal purpose for us.
But Christlikeness is not something we achieve through self-effort. It's the work of the Holy Spirit as we cooperate with His transforming power. "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory" (2 Corinthians 3:18). Transformation happens as we behold Him.
What does Christlikeness look like? It's the fruit of the Spirit becoming evident in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). It's responding to offense with forgiveness, to enemies with love, to suffering with hope.
The process of becoming Christlike involves pruning. Jesus said, "Every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful" (John 15:2). Pruning is painful but purposeful. God removes what hinders growth so we can bear more fruit.
It also involves discipline and training. "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it" (Hebrews 12:11). God allows difficulties that develop character.
In what areas is God shaping you to be more like Jesus? Where do you sense Him pruning, disciplining, transforming? Cooperate with His work. The goal is worth any temporary discomfort. Christ in you, the hope of glory, becoming more fully formed - this is your destiny.
