A Godly Goal For Your Life

What is the ultimate goal of transforming our minds and actions? The apostle Paul describes this process in his letter to the Corinthians:

But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. — 2 Corinthians 3:18

As Christians, we should look into the mirror of God’s Word and see ourselves transforming into the likeness of Christ.

As we focus on Him, our old selfish habits fade away. The reflection of Jesus in our thoughts, words, and actions becomes clearer every day.

Reflecting Jesus to the World

Paul continues this theme in the next chapter:

For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. — 2 Corinthians 4:11

Our primary goal is to make the life of Jesus visible (manifested) in our daily lives.

Paul compares our fragile human bodies to earthen pottery (clay jars) that hold an invaluable treasure—the gospel. This contrast reminds us that:

• The power to change lives comes from God, not from ourselves.
• We must continually strive to live like Jesus, even though we will not reach sinless perfection on this earth.
• Our daily struggles are opportunities for Christ’s power to shine through us.

A Life Crucified and Renewed

To achieve this goal, we must put to death our old way of living:

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. — Galatians 2:20

When we decide to follow Jesus, we crucify (put to death) our old sinful selves.

We bury that old life in the waters of baptism (Romans 6:4-6) and are raised to walk in a brand-new way of living.

This new life is built entirely on faith, which comes from studying the Word of God (Romans 10:17). If we want Christ to live in us, we must dedicate ourselves to studying how He lived and emulating (copying) His example daily.