Patience

As believers, we are on a journey of transformation, becoming more and more like Christ. 2 Corinthians 3:18 reminds us of this beautiful truth: “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” Through Jesus, the veil that once separated us from God has been removed. We now have access to His presence, where we can behold His glory. This is not just a one-time experience; it is a lifelong process of growing closer to God, allowing His Spirit to work in us and mold us into the likeness of Christ. Transformation isn’t instant—it’s a gradual journey. Each day, as we fix our eyes on Him through prayer, worship, and studying His Word, He shapes our hearts, refines our character, and aligns our lives with His purpose. This process may involve challenges, but even those are part of how God grows us from one degree of glory to the next. We are not called to remain stagnant. God is always at work in us, taking us deeper in faith, holiness, and love. The Spirit empowers this transformation, so we don’t have to strive in our own strength. Embrace God’s Transforming Work: 1. Behold His Glory Daily • Spend time with God in prayer and worship, focusing on His beauty, goodness, and faithfulness. 2. Surrender to the Spirit • Allow the Holy Spirit to lead and convict you, trusting Him to do the work of transformation. 3. Be Patient with the Process • Transformation takes time. Trust that God is working, even when you don’t see immediate results. 4. Reflect His Glory • Let your life be a reflection of God’s love and grace, pointing others to Him. 5. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection • Rejoice in how far God has brought you, knowing He will continue the work He began in you (Philippians 1:6). Question to Ponder: How can you create space in your daily life to behold God’s glory and allow Him to transform you? Prayer: Lord, thank You for the promise that You are transforming me into the image of Christ. Help me to fix my eyes on You daily and to surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit in my life. Give me patience in the process and confidence in Your faithfulness to complete the work You’ve started in me. Let my life reflect Your glory and draw others closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Growing closer to God isn’t reserved for Sundays or special occasions—it’s a daily journey of seeking His presence and walking in His love. God longs for a relationship with us, one built on trust, intimacy, and consistent connection. He promises in Jeremiah 29:13, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Drawing near to God doesn’t require perfection; it requires a willing heart. When we take even small steps toward Him, we find that He is already near, waiting to guide, comfort, and transform us. It’s in these daily moments of connection that we experience His peace, hear His voice, and grow in faith. The more time we spend with God—through prayer, Scripture, worship, and reflection—the more our lives reflect His character and purpose. He renews our minds, strengthens our spirits, and reminds us that we are never alone. Steps to Draw Near to God 1. Make Time for Him • Like any relationship, time is essential. Dedicate intentional moments each day to be with God. • Practical Tip: Start your day with a short devotional or end it in prayer and gratitude. 2. Talk to Him Throughout the Day • Prayer doesn’t have to be formal. Share your thoughts, joys, and concerns with God as you go about your day. • Scripture: “Pray continually.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) 3. Invite Him into Every Moment • Acknowledge God’s presence in your daily routines—whether you’re working, resting, or spending time with others. • Practical Tip: Whisper simple prayers like, “Thank You for being here with me.” 4. Feed Your Spirit with His Word • The Bible is God’s love letter to us, revealing His heart and guiding our lives. Meditate on His promises to grow closer to Him. 5. Worship with a Grateful Heart • Worship is a powerful way to draw near to God. Whether through song, gratitude, or reflection, it shifts your focus to His greatness. • Scripture: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise.” (Psalm 100:4) 6. Surrender Daily • Let go of control and trust God with every part of your life. Surrendering brings you closer to Him as you lean on His strength. • Scripture: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart.” (Proverbs 3:5) 7. Stay Connected to Community • Surround yourself with believers who encourage your faith and help you stay grounded in God’s truth. Why Drawing Near to God Matters • He Gives Us Strength: Spending time with God renews our energy and equips us to face challenges. • He Gives Us Direction: As we seek Him, He guides our steps and aligns our hearts with His will. • He Gives Us Peace: Being in His presence calms our fears and fills us with His love. Question to Ponder: What is one simple way you can intentionally seek God today, even in the middle of your busy life? Prayer: Lord, thank You for inviting me to draw near to You. Help me to seek You with all my heart and to prioritize our relationship each day. Teach me to trust You more deeply, to hear Your voice more clearly, and to experience the fullness of Your presence. Thank You for being near to me always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.