It was another Halloween and another costume decision to make. Unlike previous years, no theme or costume idea readily came to mind. A hard deadline was quickly approaching as my wife and I were to attend a Halloween party in less than a week. Shuffling through several internet sites, I quickly dismissed cheesy television and movie characters. I needed something that half of the party attendees would not also be wearing. After another 30 minutes of searching, I alighted upon a solution. It was quirky and practical; it was tee-shirt with the words, “Costume Downloading”. Seizing upon the opportunity, I found an old hat and cut out half of the brim and top. I then put on shoes of two different styles and colors and a vest. Finally, I wore an empty gun holster. I knew what the finished product should be but for now, I was a cowboy in the making. Indeed, my costume was downloading!
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, or it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
Philippians 2:12-13 (ESV)
Jesus Christ has saved me. My salvation is eternal and secure from the moment I confessed and repented of my sins and accepted Him as my Lord and Savior. Salvation is eternal but it is also dynamic. While I am saved, I am not yet perfected. This perfecting is sanctification; it is a continual process. God, through His Holy Spirit, continues to transform me into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ. My role is to actively seek a deeper and closer relationship with Him through prayer, reading the Bible, and living a life obedient to do His will.
Someday in Heaven, I will be the perfected person that God created me and every believer to be. I know what my final and eternal appearance will be but until then, my spiritual identity is still downloading.
Thank you, God, for your continual grace and mercy in my life.
Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.
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