WHOSE ATTRIBUTES ARE YOU REFLECTING—THE LORD’S OR YOUR PAST?

Has anyone ever pointed out how much you resemble one of your parents—perhaps in the way you laugh or a certain expression you make? It’s said that when you’re close to someone, you naturally start to mirror their behaviors without even realizing it. Similarly, our daily lives reveal a set of attributes through the way we act, speak, and think. The real question would be: whose attributes are you reflecting? Are they those of the Lord you now follow, or do they still echo the traits of the life you left behind? Today, let’s take a moment to focus on the attributes we each reflect and consider this question: “Am I happy with whom I reflect?”

A Battle of Reflection

When we give our lives to Christ, a transformation begins. The Bible tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” However, this transformation is not automatic. It requires intentionality and daily submission to God. Before we came to Christ, we served a different master — the enemy of our souls (Satan). His attributes are marked by pride, selfishness, anger, deceit, and destruction. Unfortunately, these traits can linger in our hearts and habits, even after salvation. The question is: are you allowing those old patterns to dictate your behavior, or are you reflecting the character of the Lord?

The Attributes of the Lord

God’s attributes are a clear contrast to the ones we once carried. Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruit of the Spirit: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” These are the marks of someone who is walking in step with the Spirit and reflecting God’s nature.

But reflection isn’t passive—it’s active. Like a mirror, we can only reflect what we focus on. If we continually fix our eyes on Jesus through prayer, study of His Word, and fellowship with believers, His character will naturally begin to shine through us.

Recognizing the Old Attributes

Sometimes, it’s hard to recognize when we’re reflecting the wrong attributes. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

1. How do I respond to challenges? Do you approach difficulties with faith and trust, or with fear and frustration?

2. How do I treat others? Are your words and actions marked by love and grace, or do you revert to criticism and selfishness?

3. What consumes my thoughts? Are your thoughts centered on God’s will, or are they dominated by worldly desires and old habits?

Choosing the Right Reflection

Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” Reflecting the attributes of the Lord requires an intentional, ongoing renewal.

Here are some practical ways to ensure you reflect His nature:

• Daily Devotion: Spend time in prayer and reading the Bible. This keeps your focus on Christ and aligns your heart with His.

• Self-Examination: Regularly evaluate your thoughts and actions. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas that don’t align with God’s character.

• Accountability: Surround yourself with mature believers who will encourage you to grow and hold you accountable in your journey.

• Repentance: When you fall short, don’t linger in guilt. Repent, turn back to God, and seek His strength to overcome.

The Power of Your Reflection

When you reflect the Lord’s attributes, your life becomes a testimony of His transforming power. You shine as a light in a dark world, drawing others toward Him. Remember, the reflection isn’t just about you; it’s about glorifying God and leading others to know Him.

So today, take a moment to ask yourself: Whose attributes am I reflecting? If the answer isn’t the Lord’s, it’s not too late to refocus. He’s ready to work in you and through you, shaping you into His likeness for His glory.

Reflecting the attributes of the Lord is a lifelong journey that requires commitment, humility, and reliance on His strength. While the old nature may try to resurface, God’s grace empowers us to live in the freedom and victory of our new identity in Christ. Each day presents an opportunity to choose whose attributes we reflect—the loving, holy nature of God or the remnants of a past life apart from Him.

As you walk with Him, let His light transform your heart and shine through you. Your reflection has the power to impact not only your life but also the lives of those around you. So, take time today to align your heart with His, allowing His character to shape your actions, words, and thoughts. After all, the world needs more reflections of the Lord’s love, grace, and truth. Whose attributes will you reflect today?

Source

Sunday School Service with Pastor Armando Olmedo: “Jesus’ Resurrection and Victory” https://onlylinks.cc/xaQU

Biblegateway.com