First impressions are important, so we’re often encouraged to ‘dress for success'. But as redeemed children of God, our first concern shouldn’t be how we look to others, but to God.

Just like a mirror reflects our physical appearance so that we can make adjustments, the Bible reveals our spiritual condition and tells us what to do about it. James wrote: ‘Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and continues in it – not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it – they will be blessed in what they do’ (James 1:23-25 NIV).It's important to spend time every day in the Scriptures; otherwise, we'll run around spiritually threadbare. Paul wrote, ‘Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh’ (Romans 13:14 NIV).

Author Chuck Swindoll wrote: ‘The number one enemy of change is the hard-core, self-satisfied sin nature within you. Like a spoiled child, it has been gratified and indulged for years, so it will not give up without a violent temper tantrum…The flesh dies a slow, bitter, bloody death – kicking and struggling all the way down.’

Lasting change takes place in first gear, not overdrive. In the journey of lasting change, we should expect occasional setbacks and refuse to let them throw us off course. And if we feel like giving up, we should ask God to help us get back on track. He will do it, and give us all the help we need.

What Now?

As you get dressed today, try to imagine each item of clothing being a new layer of God’s love. Whenever you face a temptation during your day, try holding on to that picture of being clothed in His love to help you stay on track with Him.