As a grandparent I have enjoyed watching my children and their spouses sharpen their parenting skills. I now better understand what an important influence parents have on the development of their children’s character. As each year passes I see more and more of my children’s character manifested in my grandchildren. A “Spiritually Exchanged Life” is somewhat similar.
But a child’s character is a blank page—nothing to remove and easy to fill. A new Christian’s character is not blank--already full of self-centerness, and sin. Transforming this old character to take on God’s character requires exchanging my view for God’s view, and a works-based relationship for a grace-based one. This is what Paul means by having the same attitude as Christ. (Phil. 2:5) The more Christ “ abides in us”, the more our character becomes Christ-like. And the more our actions become Christ’s actions. “Exchanged Spirituality” is not easy. Taking on the mind of Christ is a commitment we make when, by faith, we accept Christ’s death for our sin. It requires daily effort. It takes time. And it is never complete. But what a joy!
