Daily Bread – July 25, 2023 (The Third Day – Genesis 1:9-13) Romans 8:28-29 – And we know because of the love of God, all things work together unto good for those who are called accordingly to His purpose; who knowing beforehand, and having predestined us to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first-born among many brethren. The Greek word translated purpose in verse 28, ‘prothesis’, means “set forth”, although it may also be translated “put, purpose, shewbread (bread of His presence, or “face”). The meaning being conveyed is highlighted in the next verse (v29), which states God’s purpose for all who will believe, which is to reveal the image of His Son in them. As a result of being conformed to the image of His Son, His presence – or literally, “His face” – is revealed in the believer. The calling and purpose for which God has predestined all who will believe is to be in every way just like Jesus (Isaiah 60:1; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; Galatians 1:15-16; John 17:22, 1:16). Jesus is the express image of the Father, and we were created in Christ Jesus to be conformed to His image (Hebrews 1:3; Romans 8:29). Jesus is the pattern Son, He is God’s example that is set before us, and we are called to live and to overcome even as He did (1 Peter 2:21-22; 1 John 2:29, 3:7, 4:17; Revelation 3:21). The Spirit of the Son has come into our hearts and imparted the divine power and authority to walk in the image of the only begotten Son, Christ Jesus. God desires absolute conformity – will you participate? All we must do is yield to the Spirit of Grace, and God will do the work. Being conformed to the image of the Son is the work of grace realized in the new creation when we were born from above. Today, speak it out with your mouth and believe in your heart that you are conformed to the image of the Son (Galatians 4:6; John 1:12; Romans 8:14). Blessings, Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Daily Bread 7/25/2023
