October 19, 2025
— Dallas Willard · Source: "The Need, Vision and Strategy of Growing in Christlikeness," plenary address at the European Leadership Forum, Eger, Hungary, May 2006
Ephesians 4:22–24 So that you may put off your old self, which is corrupted by its deceitful desires, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind. And put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
The most profound change in life isn't about changing jobs, moving to a new city, or completing more ministry work, but about becoming a new person in Christ. The old self is bound by selfish desires and fears, always striving to control the future and pursue performance. The new self, renewed by the Spirit of God, learns obedience, rest, and trust. God isn't concerned with how much "spiritual achievement" I achieve, but with whether I become more like Him in the process—more gentle, more upright, more pure, and more compassionate. True discipleship isn't a busy list of tasks to serve, but a life story shaped by God. Every time I "let go of the old self," I allow the Holy Spirit space to "reshape me." Every time I "renew my mind," I realign with God's kingdom.
Lord, thank you for calling me, not to become a successful person, but to belong to you. Please illuminate my old ways of thinking, my pride, and my fears, and help me to bravely shed my old self. Please renew my mind with truth, so that I may be quietly transformed by your Spirit in the ordinary course of my daily life. May I live not merely outward actions, but a life in your image—a walk with you in truth, righteousness, and holiness. In Jesus' name, amen.