March 15 -- "You Are What You Eat: Spiritually"

 

Read 2 Corinthians 3 

When we fix our attention on something, it profoundly shapes who we become. The saying "you are what you eat" highlights that what we consume (whether it's food or influences) impacts our thoughts, behaviors, and identities.

By consistently focusing on certain influences—ideas, belief systems, individuals, or social circles—we subtly begin to adopt their traits and align with those influences. Just as consuming healthy foods leads to a healthier body, concentrating on particular traits or qualities in others can replicate those characteristics in our lives.

This principle is beautifully illustrated in today's passage from 2 Corinthians 3. "Beholding the glory of the Lord" means focusing on Christ's glory—His character, teachings, and example. This spiritual practice allows the Holy Spirit to gradually transform us into His likeness, reflecting His qualities. Our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like Him.

Transformation occurs as we meditate on Jesus' nature, revealed in Scripture. Engaging with God's Word renews our minds and aligns our hearts with Christ's heart. Jeremiah 15:16 captures this truth: "Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart." Just as Jeremiah found joy in consuming God's words, we are nourished and transformed by “eating” the truth of God’s Words.

The phrase, "from one degree of glory to another" signifies gradual transformation. Translated “from glory to glory” in the King James Version, this principle means that as we focus on Christ and immerse ourselves in His presence, we experience incremental changes in thinking, emotions, and behaviors. Gradually, step by step, our lives begin to replicate the character and personal attributes of our great Savior and Lord.

The truth that "this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit" emphasizes that these changes are brought about by the Holy Spirit and not by our human effort. Our role is to focus on Christ, seek His guidance, and submit to the Holy Spirit. It is God who illuminates, empowers, renews, and changes us, enabling us to reflect Jesus' character. Trust the process. Remember, you are what you “eat,” so, focus your attention on “consuming” Jesus and watch the mysterious work of the Spirit transform you right before your eyes.

Today, may your loving Father help you to focus your attention on Jesus. And, as you behold the glory of the Lord, may your life be transformed by the Spirit to become more and more like Him.