The Manger
Character Change – Part 2

Scripture Reading: Romans 12:1-2 & Romans 12:9-18

Key Verse: Romans 12:2

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

</em>Please check out the you are able to take the time, read Romans 12:9-18. Let the inspired words of the Apostle Paul saturate your mind. These words come out of the life and teaching of Jesus. Jesus’ love was and is sincere; let our love be sincere. Jesus hated evil but clung to good as a model for all His followers. Jesus honored others and served them above Himself—we are to follow that lifestyle as well.

Each thing you read in these verses is an element of a person’s character. If these elements are lived out in a person’s daily life, they form their character that shines bright for God. But it is impossible to shape our character by our own determination and discipline. If we want to live the abundant life Jesus said He came to give us, we must allow Him to transform us into His image. Read how the Apostle Paul described this in Ephesians 2:10, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago” (NLT). Sin wrecked us, leaving us like the crude, wooden structure called the manger. Jesus doesn’t leave us like He finds us; He makes us a new creation. God has good things for us to do, things so much more valuable than the lowly worldly pursuits. Ask God to transform you. He will!

Father, I want to live my life pursuing your ways and doing your will. Guide me today! In Jesus’ name, amen.