Be With, Become Like, and Do What Jesus Did

The Christian life doesn’t begin with doing—it begins with being. We don’t strive to earn something from God; we live from what He has already done. As we learn to be with Jesus and become like Him, our lives begin to change from the inside out.

REVIEW: Be with Jesus.

READ: Ephesians 2:4–6
“But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.”

DISCUSS: What is currently shaping your identity—what you do or who God says you are? What would it look like this week to slow down and intentionally be with Jesus instead of rushing past Him?

REVIEW: Become like Jesus.

READ: Ephesians 4:1
“Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.”

DISCUSS: Where is there a gap between your identity in Christ and your daily life? What is one habit or rhythm you can adjust this week to better align your life with who God says you are?

REVIEW: Do What Jesus Did.

READ: Ephesians 6:10-13
"A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm."

DISCUSS: Where is Jesus inviting you to take a simple step of obedience this week?

ASK

Where is your life out of order right now—are you striving instead of being, or trying to change without first being with Jesus?

PRAY

Jesus, thank You that You have already done what we could never do. Teach us to slow down, to be with You, and to live from the identity You have given us. Shape our hearts, our habits, and our lives so that we become more like You in every area. Amen.

INVITATION TO RESPOND

This week, take clear and intentional steps to reorder your life:

• Create space: Set aside 10–15 minutes each day to be with Jesus without distraction.
• Start with identity: Before you do anything each morning, remind yourself who you are in Christ.
• Adjust one rhythm: Identify one habit (time, attention, media, schedule) and align it with your desire to follow Jesus.
• Slow down: Choose one part of your day to intentionally eliminate hurry and be present with God.
• Stay consistent: Focus on small, daily faithfulness rather than trying to change everything at once.

Transformation doesn’t come from trying harder—it comes from staying close to Jesus and letting Him change you over time.