In Him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will

— Ephesians 1:11

The LORD passed before him [Moses] and proclaimed, “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness

— Exodus 34:6

Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.

–1 John 4:8

Therefore say to them, Thus says the Lord GOD: None of My words will be delayed any longer, but the word that I speak will be performed, declares the Lord GOD.”

— Ezekiel 12:28

13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,

14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.

15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ

— Ephesians 4:13-15

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, mercy and love from Christ to you.

God is greatly pleased with lives that demonstrate inward, supernatural transformation because it represents the fulfillment of His divine purpose, honors His power over human effort, and reflects His own holy character. This transformation is not mere behavior modification, but a “new creation” of the heart. God finds immense pleasure in this specific kind of transformation that demonstrates God’s power over human effort, reflects Christlikeness, fulfills the promise of a new heart, involves true worship and surrender, shows evidence of His work on His Children, and aligns with His perfect will.

When we stop trying to change themselves through willpower and allow God to transform our hearts, it highlights His power working within us rather than our human self-sufficiency. When our hearts are softened, compassionate, and aligned with Him, the intimate relationship God desired with humanity is restored and it is a fulfillment of God’s desire for His children to mature, grow, and be filled with His life. And the ultimate goal of this transformation is for us believers to bear fruit and increasingly reflect the likeness and glory of Jesus.