This article is an excerpt from the Shortform book guide to "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren. Shortform has the world's best summaries and analyses of books you should be reading.
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How do you form a Christ-like character? What tools does God use?
One of the purposes of your life is to be like Jesus more and more by taking on his values and character. Because you were created in the image of God, you innately have a Christ-like character in you, but it hasn’t been shaped yet. That’s the work that God does over your lifetime if you invite him to do so.
Read more to learn how God develops a Christ-like character in you.
Tools to Shape a Christ-Like Character
God uses four tools to help shape your Christ-like character.
Tool #1: His Word
God’s Word should take high priority in your life, as it contains the truths that guide you in fulfilling your purposes. There are three activities that help you internalize and live by his Word:
- Accept the authority of his Word. God’s word is an unfailingly reliable standard. When making decisions or examining your behavior, always ask yourself: “What does the Bible tell me to do?” Whatever God’s Word instructs, you must do with full faith in his authority.
- Fill your mind with his Word. Living by God’s Word becomes easier when it’s always ready to use in your mind. To do this, read the Bible regularly, memorize Scripture, and engage with the text by writing down your questions and observations.
- Apply the lessons of his Word. Each time you read and study God’s Word, think about the lesson in it. Then, create a practical plan to use the lesson in your life. For example, if you read the story of the Good Samaritan, you might make a plan to help someone you don’t know within the next week.
Tool #2: People
God uses other people to develop a Christ-like character in you. God wants you to grow with others, for two reasons.
- Other people serve as a support system: They encourage you to make the right choices, help you understand God’s Word in new ways, and share ideas for implementing his lessons in your life.
- Other people are imperfect: When others irritate you or challenge your patience, you face a test of character—will you choose to act like Jesus? Every time you respond with patience and unselfish love in these moments, your character becomes more Christ-like.
———End of Preview———
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Here's what you'll find in our full The Purpose Driven Life summary :
- The meaning of life from a Christian perspective
- The five purposes that you were created by God to fulfill
- How to find the unique service you were made for
