“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God”
Romans 8:14 (NIV)
Christian blogs, magazines and even friends often offer advice on ways to improve ourselves so we can become “better” Christians. They list activities or actions that, if followed, could lead us closer to God. Although the advice comes from the heart and is meant for good, it often leaves out a vital component of the change: “the needed influence of the Holy Spirit”. We don’t become Christians unless God chooses us, and we don’t change unless the Holy Spirit transforms us. It is not about willpower but God’s power.
Scripture tells us that we have choices, including whether to follow Jesus or not. Being a Christ follower requires a mindset that points to God. Paul writes in his letter to the Romans that we must be transformed by renewing our minds (see Romans 12:2). We must intentionally choose to become followers to honour and glorify God. We must purposefully seek to love God with all our mind, heart, soul and strength, and we can’t do that without the Holy Spirit’s help.
There is an expression that states, “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”. God does not want us to flatter Jesus, as flattery can also suggest an insincere act or word used to impress the recipient. God wants our actions to be sincere and pure. God want us to be as Jesus is. Our actions and behaviours should become Christ-like when the Holy Spirit gets involved. They, then should become immediate responses to the Holy Spirit’s activity in our lives, not responses motivated by a desire to please God or get something from Him.
Don’t ignore the advice and guidance from sources that want you to be Christ-like. Educate yourself as to what scripture describes as God’s attributes. Choose to become aware of the Holy Spirit’s nudging by listening and following His guidance. Seek confirmation from Christian friends or a pastor about what you hear. However, always remember that your desire to be Christ-like should be for no reason other than to worship God. It is not how we seek but why.