"From Glory To Glory"

"But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." 2 Corinthians 3:18

In order for something to be transformed from one thing to another, there is a process that must take place. The process isn't always an easy one, neither is it always pleasant either. Before carbon can become a diamond it has to be put under pressure. Before batter can become a cake it has to bake in the oven. Before sand can become glass it has to go through the fire. Before clay can become a vessel it has to be shaped through pounding and spinning and then placed in an oven.

The same principle applies spiritually. If there is going to be a change in us- a change into the image of Christ our Lord- we are going to have to go through a process as well. It doesn't just automatically happen. It happens as we are put under pressure. It happens as we fellowship with Christ's suffering. It happens as our faith is tried by fire. It happens through times of difficulty and weakness. It happens through the battles we face. It happens through times of persecution and trouble (2 Corinthians 4:8-10).

There is no "magic formula" and there is no easy road or short cut to being changed into His image. We like to hear about the "from glory to glory" part, but we don't like to hear that this glory part comes through "crucifixion"-- it did for Jesus. (John 17:1)

If you are going through something- the fire, trials, suffering for righteousness' sake, pressure, etc.- don't be discouraged. Remember this- all things are working together for your good. The good in this, though you may not feel like it or see it, is that it is part of the transformation process and once it is complete, it will have helped to change you so that you look a little more like Jesus.

Have a great day. Change always involves a process, and that process is not always easy, pain free or pleasant, but it is well worth it in the end.

For further reading:
James 1:2-4
Psalm 105:17-19
Job 23:10
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Philippians 3:10
Romans 8:28