June 5: By Beholding

June 5: By Beholding

Chapter 5

Scripture Theme: "Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2

What are you allowing your mind to constantly look at, dwelling on throughout the day?

The mind naturally adapts and conforms to the objects, thoughts, and media that we choose to focus on most. By an unchangeable law of human nature, we are fundamentally changed by whatever we choose to look at.

If we constantly feed our minds on the sensationalism, vanity, and pride of worldly entertainment, we cannot expect to develop a holy character. We become spiritually blind, insensitive to sin, and completely indifferent to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

The antidote to this spiritual decay is found in a profound truth: "By beholding Jesus, talking of His merits, telling of His love, we are changed into the same image. And while the mind dwells upon the imperfections of others, it is changed into the same likeness" (*Mind, Character, and Personality*, Vol. 2, p. 555).

Theology teaches that character transformation is never achieved through self-determination, but through consistent contemplation of Christ's character. True discipleship means intentionally guarding the avenues of the soul so that the Holy Spirit can print the likeness of Jesus onto our hearts.

 Reflection Question 1: If you audit the media, thoughts, and conversations you focused on yesterday, what kind of character are you currently cultivating?
 
Reflection Question 2: What practical step can you take right now to turn your gaze away from the defects of others and onto the beauty of Jesus?