More Like Jesus

"Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load." Galatians 6:3-4

One of the temptations we face is to compare our self to somebody else whom we deem less faithful or spiritually mature than our self. In so doing we comfort our self that we are doing quite well after all and we slip into complacency.

There is only one to whom we are to compare our self and that is Jesus Christ. To be like Him is the whole aim of our Christian life (see Romans 8:29; click on the reference to read the verse). Until we have reached the full measure of the stature of Christ (see Ephesians 4:13) we cannot rest in our effort to grow and mature spiritually.

We may grow discouraged in striving to become like Christ but we need to remember that our success does not rest with us but with God. He has given us His Holy Spirit to conform us degree by degree into the likeness of Jesus (see 2 Corinthians 3:17-18). Keep the goal of Christ-likeness before you. Never be content with any lesser standard. Rely on the Holy Spirit to help you. Enjoy the journey. You will not arrive overnight but you will arrive by His grace and for His glory.

Father, help me to never be content to measure my spiritual maturity and faithfulness against another sinful man but inspire me daily to strive for the high calling of being conformed to the image of Your Son, my Savior.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark