God seeks to reveal to you the glory of His nature, the beauty of His character, the warmth of His love. In doing so, He will conform you more closely into His express nature, that you truly know Him.
RELEVANCE
The apostle Paul broke new ground in revealing that “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). You may ask how does one really become new?
From a positional standpoint, when you come to believe in your heart and confess with your mouth Messiah Jesus as your LORD the Holy Spirit takes up residence. In union with Christ your nature is re-created. Paul continues to disclose that the process occurs by the Holy Spirit’s ministry of reconciliation. “Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18).
Our part is yielding to the working of God in our life, and allowing God to change us and transform us; “by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2).
It entails changes in our attitudes, character, morals and values; basically becoming more Christ-like. We all know it doesn’t happen quickly. It’s a lifelong process whereby we experience and sort through the deep issues of life. It’s not an easy road, but if we accept “His yoke” the burden is light. (Matthew 11:30) What are the benefits? An eternal relationship with God; knowing the genuine love, peace and joy of God.
REFLECT AND RELATE
What areas of your character do you think would be included as the Holy Spirit brings you through a process of “reconciliation?”
REFERENCES
1 Corinthians 15:49; 2 Peter 1:5-7