What you repeat is what you become. This simple but profound truth reveals how our daily habits are silently shaping us into the people we'll eventually become—for better or worse. Beyond the surface of our sandwich-bag-not-fully-zipping or candy-in-bed habits lies a deeper question: how do everyday people with busy lives learn to follow Jesus authentically?
The journey begins by understanding the difference between being saved and becoming like Christ. When we receive salvation (justification), we're instantly declared righteous before God—like being found not guilty in a divine courtroom. But the ongoing process of transformation (sanctification) happens as we partner with God through intentional spiritual habits. These practices aren't religious chores for the super-spiritual; they're sacred spaces where God meets us exactly where we are.
Three essential spiritual habits can revolutionize your relationship with God: solitude and silence, community, and service. Jesus modeled each one perfectly. He rose before dawn to pray alone, invested deeply in his disciples, and ultimately gave his life in service to others. When we create daily space to be alone with God, make ourselves known in authentic community, and use our gifts to serve others, we begin to experience the transformation we've been longing for.
The beautiful paradox of spiritual formation is that it's not about earning God's love but receiving it more fully. It's not about avoiding suffering but finding purpose within it. And it's certainly not about religious performance—it's about partnership with the God who pursues us relentlessly. What might happen if you began prioritizing these three simple habits this week? Your transformation isn't just for your benefit; it's for everyone around you who needs to see what following Jesus truly looks like.
