Fresh StartSample

As we run our race, with the goal of knowing God, one of the main things that inhibits us is our sin or sinful nature. Whatever we call it, it’s the parts of us that aren’t Christlike. Ironically, being like Jesus is the goal that we are running toward, but He is also the process. He is the way we become more like Him. While Jesus was on Earth, He told us that the key to becoming more like Him is not trying harder. It’s not fixing the parts of ourselves that aren’t like Him. Our shaping to become more like Him comes as we stay close to Him. Jesus told us: “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me” (John 15:4).

So, as you seek to race toward Jesus, make closeness your focus. Somehow in your repeated, daily closeness with Him, in your friendship, He will make you more like Himself. Interestingly, God wants followers who are loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, kind, good, and self-controlled like He is (Galatians 5:22-23). That is true. But the process to get there is closeness, it’s friendship. That desire shows God’s motivation. God wants obedience, yes, but beyond that, He wants friends. As you start this year afresh, seek Jesus. You will become more like Him, yes, but more than that you will become something greater—His friend.