As Christians strive to deepen their faith, a significant aspiration is to become more Christlike in thoughts, actions, and attitudes. This process of spiritual transformation is not instantaneous, but rather a lifelong journey that requires dedication, humility, and reliance on God’s Word and Spirit. Here, we explore practical steps to help Christians on this journey, enriched by guidance from the Bible.
Abiding in the Word of God
To truly become more Christlike, believers must immerse themselves in Scripture. The Bible serves as the mirror through which we see Christ’s perfection and identify areas that need growth. Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of abiding in His Word: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed” (John 8:31). Studying the life and teachings of Jesus in the Gospels provides a clear blueprint of His compassion, humility, and obedience to the Father.
Regular Bible study, prayerful meditation, and memorization of key verses help Christians internalize the truth and wisdom that guide their daily lives. Psalm 119:105 reminds us, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” By making Scripture an integral part of their lives, believers align their hearts and minds more closely with Christ.
Embracing Humility
Humility is one of the most defining characteristics of Jesus and a cornerstone in becoming more Christlike. Philippians 2:5-7 exhorts believers to adopt the mindset of Christ: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant…”
To walk in humility, Christians must resist pride and self-centeredness, choosing instead to serve others selflessly, following Jesus’ example. By understanding that all gifts, talents, and opportunities come from God, believers grow in gratitude and reverence, seeking to glorify God rather than themselves.
Walking in Love
Another essential step in becoming more Christlike is to embody Christ’s love. Jesus’ love was sacrificial, unconditional, and transformative, as best illustrated by His giving His life for humanity. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).
Christians are called to love God wholeheartedly and extend that love to others, even those who may be challenging to love. This echoes the greatest commandment: “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Matthew 22:39). Demonstrating patience, forgiveness, empathy, and kindness reflects Christ’s love and draws others toward Him.
Living in Obedience
Obedience is central to Christ’s example and must be evident in the lives of those who seek to become more Christlike. Jesus consistently obeyed the Father’s will, even unto death: “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:8).
For Christians today, obedience involves yielding to God’s commandments, trusting His plans, and putting faith into action. James 1:22 admonishes believers: “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” Living in obedience strengthens faith and cultivates a heart that mirrors Christ’s submission to the Father.
Developing a Prayerful Life
Prayer is a vital tool in the journey to become more Christlike. Throughout His life, Jesus demonstrated the importance of prayer, whether seeking the Father’s guidance or interceding for others. Luke 5:16 highlights His devotion: “And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.”
A prayerful life nurtures intimacy with God and aligns believers’ desires with His will. Christians are encouraged to follow Jesus’ example by praying fervently, humbly, and persistently. The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) serves as an excellent pattern for approaching God with reverence and dependence.
Bearing the Fruit of the Spirit
Finally, becoming more Christlike entails bearing the fruit of the Spirit — qualities that reflect Jesus’ character. Galatians 5:22-23 outlines these virtues: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance…” These attributes are cultivated through the work of the Holy Spirit within believers.
By yielding to the Spirit, Christians grow in holiness and exhibit traits that bear witness to Christ’s transformative power in their lives. This fruit serves as evidence of spiritual maturity and inspires others to pursue their own journey toward Christlikeness.
A Lifelong Journey
Becoming more Christlike is not a destination but an ongoing process of transformation. As believers abide in God’s Word, embrace humility, walk in love, live in obedience, develop a prayerful life, and bear the fruit of the Spirit, they draw closer to reflecting the character of Christ. Let us continually strive to follow the example of our Savior, echoing the call of 1 Peter 2:21: “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.”
For more related reading, view “Gems of Faith: True Blessedness.”