As the Day Begins
“For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son.” — Romans 8:29, NIV. (Bible App)
Paul’s words give us a steady answer to a morning question: What is God doing in my life? In Romans 8, he speaks to people who know weakness, suffering, and waiting. God’s purpose for them is that they become like His Son. He has welcomed us in Christ, and He continues His work in us while we live through ordinary days.
A. W. Tozer invites us to take a high view of this work. Salvation includes the promise of life with God, and it also changes how we live now. A person who once answered criticism with anger may learn to pause and speak gently. Someone who has long carried resentment may begin to pray for the grace to forgive. These changes can be slow, but slow does not mean still. Paul writes elsewhere that we “are being transformed into his image” by the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18, NIV). God is shaping us toward the likeness of Jesus as we keep turning to Him. (Bible Gateway)
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me with a purpose larger than getting me through today. You know the habits I carry and the situations that will test my patience. When I am tempted to judge this day only by what I finish, remind me to notice how I treat the people You place before me. Help me receive Your correction without despair and Your kindness without taking it for granted.
Jesus the Son, thank You for showing me what a life of faithful love looks like. I want to resemble You in the moments that seldom draw attention: in a careful answer, an honest apology, a visit I have been putting off, or a kindness offered when I am tired. When I fail, draw me back to You. Teach me to follow Your way again today.
Holy Spirit, I welcome Your work in the parts of my life that are still unfinished. Bring Scripture to mind when I need guidance, and make me willing to obey what I understand. Give me patience with the pace of growth while keeping me attentive to the next faithful step. Form in me a love that others can experience, and help me give thanks for every sign of Your work.
Thought for the Day: Before your first demanding task, read Romans 8:28–30. Then choose one ordinary encounter in which you can practice the patience, truthfulness, or compassion of Jesus.
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