With the sure knowledge that the loving Trinitarian Presence is alongside us, we discover that partnering with God himself is life-giving. And indispensable, in the day-by-day process of spiritual transformation.
Scripture (as usual) helps us reset our internal compass – the Spirit aiding us with course-corrections at every needed juncture. “And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image”*
Now comes the other non-negotiable amidst our yearnings to see his ongoing favor bringing growth to our lives. We ask afresh, what again is the goal?
As members of the ragtag company of individuals that Jesus calls his disciples, we are not left to flounder. No one needs to feel they are “adrift at sea”. A disciple (apprentice to Christ) is anyone earnestly pursuing life with God in the ever-unfolding enterprise of growing to resemble Jesus more and more.
That essential (non-negotiable) element that is linked to our partnering with God is our engagement in practicing, or training.
If you are anything like me, a lot of yardage stretches out ahead between me and the finish line. On some days the goal post (representing a consistent resemblance to Christ) appears like a faint mirage far downfield. Welcome to the apprenticing life!
A wonderful and gratifying discovery in any persons’ forward movement – regardless of the amount of yardage gained – in Christian apprenticeship is this. We travel in the company of other pilgrims, guided along by the best-ever mentor.
Our Lord is patient and encouraging beyond words, our brilliant and gracious guide. He, Jesus, shows himself to be the best friend and companion one could hope for on any pilgrimage. Ever.
©2025 Jerry Lout *2 Corinthians 3:18
Praise the LORD!!! What a marvelous and inspiring post. Please keep up the good work, Bro. Jerry.
This is a must read and then a must re-reading.
So grateful, Walter. Your affirming perspectives, a Treasure. God bless.
Jerry, your picture of walking, learning, growing into the image, likeness and character of. Jesus is a lifetime project. The Holy Spirit shared a word with me describing our journey, some time ago. He said this is an , arduous journey. Your word picture is right on. KW
Thank you, Ken. An encouraging reminder.