Pursuing Spiritual Transformation in 2021

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Why Pursue Transformation?

Every year we have a fresh opportunity to examine our lives, assess our spiritual strengths and weaknesses, and develop a spiritual growth plan for the next 12 months. Why do this? While there are a thousand subsequent reasons for this, the primary reason is this: the chief purpose of the Christian life is to know God. In order to know God we must experience spiritual transformation that results in Christian maturity. This transformation is not about being “the best version of yourself” or even “becoming a better person”. Spiritual transformation in Christ is all about being molded and conformed (or morphed) into the likeness of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:28-29, Colossians 1:28).

Why do we need transformation? Simple: whoever you are and whatever season of life you’re in right now there are areas of your life not in submission to Christ. This is true of me and true of every follower of Christ. The process of being conformed into the likeness of Christ is a life-long process where the Holy Spirit transforms every nook and cranny of our heart, mind, and soul to be more in conformity to the likeness of Christ. The biblical word for this process is sanctification.

Sanctification has nothing to do with our salvation or even our justification; that’s already been accomplished and is perfectly maintained by the work of Christ. Therefore, with these truths in mind, we can approach our sanctification with liberty, freedom, joy, and grace-based effort. The apostle Peter exhorts believers to make “every effort” to grow in our faith on a regular, consistent, and diligent manner (2 Peter 1:1-15).

Every letter in the New Testament was written by disciples for disciples. The reality of the presence of these letters in the Bible indicate very clearly that no one drifts into maturity. It’s a process; an intentional process.

“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”
— 2 Peter 1:5-7

How to Pursue Transformation

One of the most common barriers to believers growing and maturing seems to be a lack of effort. Personally, I can relate to this battle in many areas of my life. Additionally, some believers simply aren’t aware of the many biblical and gospel-centered resources that are supplemental aids to their spiritual transformation.

Remember, transformation takes place as you surrender to the Spirit, not by “trying harder” in the flesh. What do you need to focus on in 2021? Be intentional to pursue Him and His voice in the coming new year. Therefore, remember how the Spirit has equipped you to walk in step with Him:

  • The Spirit of God indwells and empowers you.

    • Your Part: Surrender daily to the Spirit; listen and obey His voice above all else. (Gal. 5:16-26)

      • How are you doing in this area?

  • The Word of God informs, shapes, and guides you.

    • Your Part: Saturate yourself in the Scriptures daily; you don’t critique the Bible, the Bible critiques you! (2 Tim. 3:16)

      • How are you doing in this area?

      • What’s your plan for personal Bible study in 2021?

  • The family of God (the Church) encourages, rebukes, and strengthens you.

    • Your Part: Surround yourself with godly men/women who will walk with you in meaningful friendship, discipleship, accountability, and life together. (Acts 2:42-47, Prov. 27:17)

      • How are you doing in this area?

      • Who do you need to invite into your life? Begin praying - then ask!

With that framework in mind first, here are 5 tips that will aid your process of becoming more like Jesus in 2021:

  1. Daily intake of God’s Word - there is no substitute for your own personal study of God’s Word.

  2. Daily prayer

    • Make time to pray (pick a time, pick a place, be consistent - pray in the car, shower, bedtime, etc.)

    • Turn your problems into prayers

    • Pray with confidence according to God’s will by praying Scripture (Pray through a Psalm a day or check out this recommended book)

  3. Preach the Gospel to yourself daily

  4. Be committed to a local church

    • Be an active, serving, and giving member. Attend weekly services and prayer meetings. Be active in a small group or community group for accountability, life on life, communal Bible study, etc. You’ll be amazed about how often the Lord works in you through other people’s influence. Remember, the same Spirit that is in you is in them too. Put yourself in proximity to others who are following Jesus, being transformed by Jesus, and joining Jesus in His mission. Serve together, live on mission together, worship together, struggle together, etc.

    • Looking for a church? Check out that site or if you’re in Des Moines, IA I’d love to invite you to join me at The Mission Church - Sundays at 10 AM.

  5. Be committed to personal disciple-making - Every disciple is a disciple-maker (Matthew 28:18-20, 2 Timothy 2:2)

Spiritual DisciplinesBrett RicleyComment