Bridging the Gap: The Journey of Transformation

Devotional

Day 1: Recognizing the Gap Between Aspirational and Actual Self

We all experience a gap between who we aspire to be and who we actually are. This gap can be frustrating and discouraging, especially for Christians who feel they should know better. Recognizing this gap is the first step towards transformation. The "aspirational you" is the version of yourself that is healthy, resilient, loving, and full of integrity. However, the "actual you" often struggles with self-control, unhealthy habits, and actions you regret. This disparity can be a source of deep frustration, particularly for those who follow Jesus and feel they should have overcome these struggles by now.

Understanding and acknowledging this gap is crucial. It is not a sign of failure but an invitation to growth. By recognizing where you fall short, you can begin to take practical steps towards bridging this gap. This journey of transformation is not about achieving perfection but about becoming more aligned with the person God desires you to be. [36:46]

Galatians 5:17 (ESV): "For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do."

Reflection: Identify one area in your life where you see a significant gap between your aspirational self and your actual self. What practical steps can you take today to begin bridging that gap?

Day 2: The Importance of Spiritual Formation

Spiritual formation is a universal human experience, not just a Christian one. We are all being formed by something, whether it is our culture, our experiences, or our relationships. Christian spiritual formation specifically involves allowing Jesus to shape our inner selves. This process determines who we become and how we impact the world. It is about being transformed into the image of Christ, which is the essence of spiritual maturity.

Dallas Willard emphasized that the most important thing in life is who you become, as it shapes your experiences and impacts those around you. John Mark Comer added that spiritual formation is what differentiates a soul like Nelson Mandela from one deformed by evil. This transformation is not just about external behaviors but about a deep, inner change that reflects Jesus' character. [42:07]

2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."

Reflection: Reflect on the influences that are currently shaping your inner self. Are they leading you towards or away from becoming more like Jesus? What changes can you make to allow Jesus to shape you more fully?

Day 3: Divine Enablement and Human Responsibility

Transformation requires both divine enablement and human responsibility. God provides the power and resources, but we must actively participate in the process. This partnership is essential for closing the gap between our aspirational and actual selves. Peter's words in 2 Peter 1:3-4 remind us that Jesus' divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him. This knowledge is not just intellectual but relational, implying an intimate connection with Jesus.

Through His promises, Jesus enables us to participate in the divine nature, overcoming our default sin nature. These promises include Jesus defeating the power of sin and sending the Holy Spirit to live in our hearts, giving us a new capacity to live godly lives. However, we must also take responsibility for our actions and choices, actively engaging in practices that foster spiritual growth. [48:51]

Philippians 2:12-13 (ESV): "Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."

Reflection: Consider an area of your life where you need transformation. What steps can you take to actively participate in the process, trusting in God's power to enable you?

Day 4: The Role of Jesus' Promises

Jesus' promises, including the defeat of sin and the gift of the Holy Spirit, enable us to participate in the divine nature. These promises give us the capacity to overcome our sin nature and live godly lives, reflecting Jesus' character. Peter's words in 2 Peter 1:3-4 highlight that through Jesus' divine power, we have everything we need for a godly life. This includes the promise of the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live in a way that honors God.

These promises are not just theoretical but practical, providing us with the resources we need to live out our faith. By relying on these promises, we can experience true transformation, moving from our default sin nature to a life that reflects Jesus' love, grace, and truth. [56:17]

2 Peter 1:3-4 (ESV): "His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire."

Reflection: Reflect on a specific promise of Jesus that you need to hold onto today. How can this promise empower you to overcome a particular struggle or challenge in your life?

Day 5: Transformation is Possible

Believing in the possibility of transformation is crucial. Jesus made it possible through His resurrection and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Whether you are a new believer or a seasoned Christian, embracing this truth can inspire you to pursue a life that looks more like Jesus. Transformation is not just a distant hope but a present reality that you can experience through faith in Jesus.

The journey of transformation is open to everyone, regardless of where you are in your faith journey. By believing in the power of Jesus' resurrection and the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life, you can take the first step towards becoming who God desires you to be. This transformation is a lifelong process, but it is possible because Jesus made it possible. [01:07:49]

Romans 12:2 (ESV): "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

Reflection: Think about an area of your life where you have doubted the possibility of transformation. How can you renew your mind and embrace the truth that transformation is possible through Jesus? What practical steps can you take today to begin this journey?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Today, we explored a universal truth: none of us are consistently who we aspire to be. We all have an "aspirational you"—a version of ourselves that is healthy, resilient, loving, and full of integrity. Yet, we often fall short, revealing the "actual you" that struggles with self-control, unhealthy habits, and actions we regret. This gap between who we are and who we want to be is frustrating and discouraging, especially for those of us who follow Jesus and feel we should know better by now.

We introduced a new series called "The Art of Transformation," focusing on who we are becoming and how we can bridge this gap. The goal is to eliminate frustration, provide practical steps for transformation, and expand our vision of who God wants us to be. Dallas Willard emphasized that the most important thing in life is who you become, as it shapes your experiences and impacts those around you. John Mark Comer added that spiritual formation is what differentiates a soul like Nelson Mandela from one deformed by evil.

Spiritual formation is not just a Christian concept but a human one. We are all being formed by something, and Christian spiritual formation specifically involves allowing Jesus to shape us. The Apostle Paul in Galatians 4:19 speaks of Christ being formed in us, which is the essence of spiritual maturity. This transformation is a lifelong process, requiring both divine enablement and human responsibility—what we called "thing one" (God) and "thing two" (you).

Peter's words in 2 Peter 1:3-4 remind us that Jesus' divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him. This knowledge is not just intellectual but relational, implying an intimate connection with Jesus. Through His promises, Jesus enables us to participate in the divine nature, overcoming our default sin nature. These promises include Jesus defeating the power of sin and sending the Holy Spirit to live in our hearts, giving us a new capacity to live godly lives.

Transformation is possible because Jesus made it possible. Whether you are a long-time follower of Jesus or someone exploring faith, the journey of transformation is open to you. Believe in the power of Jesus' resurrection and the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life, and take the first step towards becoming who God desires you to be.

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Key Takeaways

1. The Gap Between Aspirational and Actual Self: We all experience a gap between who we aspire to be and who we actually are. This gap can be frustrating and discouraging, especially for Christians who feel they should know better. Recognizing this gap is the first step towards transformation. [36:46]
2. The Importance of Spiritual Formation: Spiritual formation is a universal human experience, not just a Christian one. We are all being formed by something, and Christian spiritual formation involves allowing Jesus to shape our inner selves. This process determines who we become and how we impact the world. [42:07]
3. Divine Enablement and Human Responsibility: Transformation requires both divine enablement and human responsibility. God provides the power and resources, but we must actively participate in the process. This partnership is essential for closing the gap between our aspirational and actual selves. [48:51]
4. The Role of Jesus' Promises: Jesus' promises, including the defeat of sin and the gift of the Holy Spirit, enable us to participate in the divine nature. These promises give us the capacity to overcome our sin nature and live godly lives, reflecting Jesus' character. [56:17]
5. Transformation is Possible: Believing in the possibility of transformation is crucial. Jesus made it possible through His resurrection and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Whether you are a new believer or a seasoned Christian, embracing this truth can inspire you to pursue a life that looks more like Jesus. [01:07:49]
### [67:49]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:45] - The Universal Struggle
[03:00] - Aspirational vs. Actual Self
[06:30] - Introducing "The Art of Transformation"
[10:00] - Dallas Willard's Insight
[12:30] - John Mark Comer's Perspective
[15:00] - Spiritual Formation Explained
[18:00] - Thing One and Thing Two
[21:00] - 2 Peter 1:3-4 Breakdown
[25:00] - The Role of Knowledge
[28:00] - Participating in the Divine Nature
[32:00] - Jesus' Promises
[35:00] - The Power of the Holy Spirit
[38:00] - Transformation is Possible
[41:00] - Invitation to Believe
[44:00] - Closing Prayer

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What does 2 Peter 1:3-4 say about the resources we have for living a godly life?
According to Galatians 4:19, what is Paul's desire for the believers in Galatia?
In the sermon, what are the two components of transformation referred to as "thing one" and "thing two"? ([48:17])
How does the sermon describe the gap between the "aspirational you" and the "actual you"? ([36:04])

Interpretation Questions

How does the knowledge of Jesus, as mentioned in 2 Peter 1:3-4, differ from merely knowing about Jesus? ([54:05])
What does it mean to participate in the divine nature according to 2 Peter 1:4, and how does this impact our daily lives?
The sermon mentions that spiritual formation is a universal human experience. How does this concept apply to both Christians and non-Christians? ([42:07])
What role do Jesus' promises play in enabling us to overcome our sin nature and live godly lives? ([56:17])

Application Questions

Reflect on the gap between your "aspirational you" and your "actual you." What specific areas in your life highlight this gap, and how do you feel about it? ([36:46])
Considering the importance of spiritual formation, what are some practical steps you can take to allow Jesus to shape your inner self more intentionally? ([42:07])
How can you actively participate in the process of transformation, balancing divine enablement and human responsibility in your daily life? ([48:51])
Think about a promise of Jesus that has been particularly meaningful to you. How has this promise helped you participate in the divine nature and overcome your sin nature? ([56:17])
Transformation is a lifelong process. What is one specific area in your life where you need to believe in the possibility of transformation, and what first step can you take this week? ([01:07:49])
How can you cultivate a more intimate and relational knowledge of Jesus, as described in 2 Peter 1:3-4, in your daily spiritual practices? ([54:05])
Reflect on a time when you felt frustrated by the gap between your aspirational and actual self. How did you handle it, and what can you learn from that experience to apply in the future? ([36:46])

Sermon Clips

1. "None of us are consistently who we want to be. None of us are consistently who we know we should be. None of us are consistently who we, you know, believe we should be, who others need us to be. We all know this, right? Like in different seasons, and different chapters of your life, you've experienced this. Different moments where this, you know, this becomes abundantly clear, depending on the night of the week and how your kids are doing, this becomes abundantly clear." [35:18] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "There's a gap, right? Like, there's a gap, there's a gap between the aspirational you and the actual you, a gap that sometimes we are aware of, usually, though, after the gap has done some damage, but a gap that those closest to us are always aware of. And the gap, all right, come on, the gap, the gap is frustrating, the gap can be discouraging, the gap can be defeating, especially if you know, especially if you want different, especially if you want better." [36:46] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "The most important thing in life, the most important thing in life, he said, the most important thing in life is who you become. The most important thing in life is who you become. Because who you become, determines the experience you have in your life and how others experience you in life. Who you become determines how people are raised by you, led by you, and or loved by you. Come on, who you become and who I become determines what kind of imprint we leave on this world." [40:06] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Christian spiritual formation is when we allow Jesus to form who we are. Christian spiritual formation is when we allow the inner self to be formed by Jesus, so that we look, live, and love more like Jesus. In fact, in fact, the primary, one of the primary purposes of your faith, in fact, I think you could argue, it is the primary purpose of your faith on this side of heaven, is to be transformed. To be transformed to look, live, and love more like Jesus." [43:43] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Transformation has two components, two components. And I wanna tell you what the two components are. You guys know Dr. Seuss, okay? Dr. Seuss, he's these two characters. I think it's in The Cat in the Hat. I'm more of the foot book guy. But you know, either one is fine. But there's these two characters in The Cat in the Hat. You know these guys, right? Thing one and thing two. They pop out of the box, and they kinda go crazy. They're these blue haired twins. They run around together. They're inseparable. Wherever thing one goes, thing two goes." [47:17] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "If you're not participating in the divine nature, then we are left with our default nature. If you're not participating in the divine nature, then there's only one nature left to participate in, and that is our sin nature. Our default nature, the nature that we just have by way of being human. In fact, in the New Testament, our sin nature is called the flesh. And all the flesh is, the flesh is our propensity to sin. The flesh is our propensity, kind of like our inclination to move inward towards self and away from God, which always hurts others." [57:41] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "Transformation is possible. Like, some of us just need to change our mindset today. That freedom is possible. Healing is possible. Reconciliation and recovery is possible. Jesus made it possible because he loves. Jesus made it possible because he desires what's best for you. Jesus made it possible because he wants you to be the best human on this side of heaven because he knows that's what's best for you and the world around you. And he himself showed us the way." [01:07:49] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "In Christ, we possess a new capacity to make a godly life our reality. In Christ, being relationally connected to Jesus, we possess a new potential, a new power, a new power, a new capacity, a new dawn before us to make a godly life our reality. The life that you think is broken, that faith that you think is just broken, the life that you just think is too far gone, the pieces that you're not sure how to put together, come on, we possess a brand new capacity, something we haven't had before, to make a godly life our reality." [01:03:42] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "We have access, we have access to everything we need for life and godliness through our connection to Jesus. We have everything that we need. We have everything that we need to pursue life and godliness through our connection, our relationship to Jesus. Now, keep thing one and thing two in mind. Thing one, Jesus has given us all. We need thing two to pursue a life that looks like Jesus." [55:09] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "Jesus defeated the power of sin and sent his Holy Spirit to live in our hearts. Don't miss this. When Jesus died on the cross and he rose from the grave, it wasn't just so you could go to heaven one day. When Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave, it's so that he could defeat the power of sin in your life today. In his resurrection, he delivered us from the tyranny and the power of our sin nature, and we have a brand new capacity to say no to the sin nature that wants to kill things, and we can say yes to the divine nature that wants to bring, to say no to our default setting, and as we do, participate in the divine nature, looking a little bit more like Jesus and loving a little bit more like Jesus and living a little bit more like Jesus today than we did yesterday." [01:01:34] (57 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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