February 23-27

Growth Begins When We Look at Jesus

“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.” — 2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV)

In 1964, NASA engineers noticed astronauts who spent time studying Earth from space experienced what psychologists now call the “overview effect”: a mental shift that changed how they saw everything. Apollo astronaut Jim Lovell said seeing Earth made problems feel smaller, and purpose feel clearer (NASA Oral History Project).

That’s the idea behind Paul’s words. Spiritual transformation begins with beholding Jesus. The word “beholding” means to gaze with focus and reflection. We become like what we consistently look at. This is why spiritual growth is not behavior modification first: it is attention reorientation. When we focus on Christ’s glory; His holiness, grace, and love, the Spirit reshapes us.

Growth happens “from one degree of glory to another.” Slowly. Steadily. Supernaturally.

Reflection Questions
What are you focusing on most right now?
How can you intentionally behold Jesus today?

Suggested Prayer
Lord, help me fix my eyes on You so You can transform me.

We Confess Jesus: Receiving His Forgiveness

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us.”— 1 John 1:9 (ESV)

In 2009, a New Jersey man walked into a police station and confessed to a bank robbery committed 15 years earlier. He said the guilt had followed him every day, and he wanted freedom more than escape (ABC News). Confession didn’t increase his burden; it relieved it.

Confession works the same way spiritually. Confessing to Jesus is good for the soul because it allows us to experience forgiveness already purchased at the cross. God does not forgive reluctantly; He forgives willingly.

Paul reminds us that transformation happens when nothing stands between Christ and us. Confession removes barriers. Forgiveness restores intimacy.

Reflection Questions
Is there anything you need to confess to Jesus today?
How does remembering His forgiveness help you grow?

Suggested Prayer
Jesus, thank You for forgiving me. Help me walk in freedom.

We Speak to Jesus: Prayer Builds Relationship

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock.” — Revelation 3:20 (ESV)

A husband once said his wife told him, “You still love me like when we were dating, you just don’t talk anymore.” He replied, “I married you. You already know everything!” She answered, “That’s not how relationships grow.” He quickly learned silence isn’t strength; it’s distance. The same is true spiritually. Prayer is not a religious duty, it is relational intimacy.

Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 3:18 remind us that transformation happens as we “behold” Jesus. One of the primary ways we behold Him is through prayer. Prayer turns our attention from ourselves to Him. It is how we open the door and fellowship with Christ. Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace.” Because of Jesus’ finished work, we don’t approach God as strangers, but as children. Prayer is not about earning access, it’s about enjoying access.

Prayer also aligns our hearts with God’s will. Philippians 4:6–7 promises that when we pray, God gives peace that guards our hearts. Prayer doesn’t just change circumstances, it changes us. As you speak to Jesus, your fears shrink, your faith grows, and your heart becomes more like His.

Reflection Questions
How consistent is your prayer life right now?
What can you begin talking to Jesus about today?

Suggested Prayer
Jesus, help me grow closer to You through prayer.

We Listen to Jesus: Hearing His Voice

“Speak, LORD, for your servant hears.” — 1 Samuel 3:9 (ESV)

A man bought expensive noise-canceling headphones so he could ignore distractions while working at home. Unfortunately, he also ignored his wife calling him for dinner, the doorbell ringing, and his dog barking to go outside. He later joked, “They work great; I just don’t know why everyone is mad at me.”

Hearing requires attention. Listening to Jesus is essential for growth. Many believers speak to God but rarely slow down to listen. God speaks primarily through His Word. The Holy Spirit applies Scripture directly to our hearts.

Transformation happens when we don’t just read Scripture but receive it.

Reflection Questions
When do you intentionally listen to God?
What is God teaching you right now?

Suggested Prayer
Lord, help me slow down and listen when You speak.

Growth Happens Through Daily Transformation

“Are being transformed into the same image.” — 2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV)

A man joined a gym in January and expected immediate results. After one workout, he checked the mirror and said, “I don’t see anything.” The trainer replied, “Come back in six months.” He answered, “Six months? I was hoping by Thursday.” (Men’s Health Magazine) We laugh, but spiritual growth works the same way. Transformation takes time. Paul says we grow “from one degree of glory to another.” Growth is gradual, not instant.

The phrase “are being transformed” is present tense, meaning continuous action. God changes us over time. The context of this verse goes back to Moses in Exodus 34. Moses wore a veil because the people could not bear the reflected glory of God. But now, Paul says, the veil is removed through Christ (2 Corinthians 3:16). We can see God’s glory clearly and that vision changes us.

This transformation happens as we behold Christ in His Word. Romans 12:2 says, “Be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” As Scripture renews our thinking, it reshapes our living. Even when growth feels slow, God is working. Philippians 1:6 promises, “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion.” Every prayer, every moment in Scripture, every act of obedience is part of God’s transforming work.

Reflection Questions
Where have you seen God grow you recently?
What step of growth is He calling you to today?

Suggested Prayer
Father, thank You for patiently transforming me.