Relentless Purpose: Conforming to the Image of His Son

"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him." – 2 Chronicles 16:9

This morning’s devotional, sourced from Abide Above, reminds us of the relentless purpose of God in our lives. Every thought God has concerning us is grounded in His Son, Jesus Christ, where He has placed us. His plans are "thoughts of peace, and not of evil" (Jeremiah 29:11), working even the harm done to us by others for our good, all for Jesus’ sake.

The Purpose Behind the Process

The hardships and conditions of life are not without meaning. God uses them as the tools to shape us into the likeness of His Son. T. Austin-Sparks insightfully notes that while we may become increasingly aware of the darker features of our old selves, God is simultaneously bringing forth a new creation within us. This new creation, the life of Christ, may seem to develop slowly, but it is happening nonetheless. One day, the transformation will be fully revealed as conformity to the image of His Son.

The trials we face are not arbitrary; they are intentional. Afflictions, as difficult as they are, serve as instruments in the hands of the Holy Spirit. They soften our hearts, much like wax must be melted to bear the imprint of a signet. Job acknowledged this truth when he said, "God maketh my heart soft" (Job 23:16). Through our challenges, God prepares us to receive and reflect His likeness.

Abounding in Gratitude Through It All

As we grow in Christ, rooted and built up in Him, we find ourselves strengthened in faith. This process cultivates a heart of gratitude, not because life becomes easy, but because we recognize the beauty of God's work within us. "Rooted and built up in Him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving" (Colossians 2:7).

A Prayer of Thanksgiving

Father, thank You for Your relentless purpose in our lives. You work through every trial, every joy, and every sorrow to shape us into the image of Your Son. Thank You for giving us soft hearts that are open to Your impressions and teachable spirits that grow in grace. May we trust in Your sovereign plan and abound in thanksgiving as we recognize Your faithful hand at work. Amen