Flourish In Christ: 7-Day DevotionalShembull

Paul's prayer in this verse says, "let God transform you" or "be transformed." This phrase is so powerful here. Paul did not declare that God would try to transform or that He may change thinking for some but not others. Paul is telling us that if we are striving to behave more like Christ, the Holy Spirit willchange the way we think. The result is that we will understand God's plan for us and how we can be used to glorify Him. This fact is clear, certain, simple, and amazing.  No matter the circumstance, if you seek Him, the outcome is that we flourish! 

How can I be transformed to be more like Christ?

Praying and meditating on this verse reminded me of something I've read about analyzing time. I don't remember specifics, except making a list of what is essential starting with most important first. Then, a list of what time is spent doing from most to least. My priority is being God-centered.

The next items included family, church, friends, and job. I was proud and admired this list briefly. It accurately represents what is important to my true self. Then, as I'm honestly making my "How I Spend My Time" list, I discovered it does not match up well. My list looked as if God was first in my life, but my time spent with Him said otherwise. Just as this is sinking in like a lead balloon, I get a notification that my screen time was up 12% on my phone. Now what? After some prayer, I put a date on this list and outlined specific changes. I'll do this again and repeat to continue aligning more with God; being transformed to be more like Christ is a continual process. 

Ups and downs will come, but we must remember not to be conformed to the world. Our minds must be renewed to become more like Christ; then we will know the will of God. When we live like the bible instructs, God reveals our own unique, spiritual gifts. Through prayer and focus on God, our spiritual gifts are discovered and grown in ways that are perfect and pleasing to Him. He transforms our minds and hearts and gives us spiritual gifts. Let's flourish and give all glory to God!

Does your time indicate you are more aligned with the world or God?  

What are the spiritual gifts God has given you?