YOU~~~~>>>
There is a poster that shows a kitten looking in
a mirror. The reflection shows a lion. The saying is, "What matters most is
how you see yourself". This is true, it does matter how we see ourselves.
Can we see ourselves as we really are, or do we see ourselves as what we would
like ourselves to be? How does God see us? What are we wearing?
We are wearing the image of the kitten, a human being with a carnal mind, which Romans 8:7 says is enmity against God, and not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. Sin dwells there. However, another image is possible with the power of the Holy Spirit of God. It is the lion the very image of God. God sees us as wearing His likeness, and as His potential spiritual children.
We must then put on the image of God. Jesus said in John 14:9 "... he that has seen Me has seen the Father;" So, wear the example of Jesus always. (John 14:12) Jesus is referred to as a lion in Revelation 5:5.
Humbly realizing that we are wearing the image of the kitten, the reality of who we are, we must want to change to wear the image of the lion. This is repentance. Then one must be baptized which represents throwing away the carnal mind, and putting on a clean mind. This will make it possible to receive the Holy Spirit. The Holy spirit adds the jewels of understanding the holy law, lighting up recognition of sin. Is it possible to put on perfection? No!
It was possible for Jesus Christ as a human. Jesus Christ, by His sacrifice, can take away those human imperfections when asked. Then one will be dressed properly, and be acceptable to God the Father. So, accepting the sacrifice of Jesus Christ is important.
Yes, humbly, as kittens, look into the mirror, see yourself dressed as a sinner, because all sin, but look forward to the picture of yourself dressed as a lion, a powerful spiritual being, a child of God in His full likeness. This is the great hope that the Bible shows us.
In the meantime cover yourself with the Armour of God: Ephesians
6:13-17
Waist girded with truth, feet shod with the gospel of peace,
carry the shield of faith, wear the helmet of salvation, and carry the sword of
the Spirit which is the word of God.
And produce the fruits of the Holy Spirit:
Galatians 5:22-23
Love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness,
and self-control.
You might be interested in a free booklet called "Transforming Your Life - The Process of Conversion" at http://www.ucg.org/booklets/ in their Literature Library