“God willed to make known this mystery . . Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27.

In Christ alone, immeasurable potential is possible.

My thoughts and comments today are about “immeasurable potential.”

Referring to potential, it has been said, “Anyone can count the seeds in an apple, but only God knows the number of apples in a seed.” Potential is immeasurable, except to God. You too have an amazing, God-given potential, that only your Creator fully knows. Potential is not primarily about self-realization; potential is found in fulfilling the design and will of God for your life. Innately, you know that you desire to be more than you’ve been.

Paul marveled at the mystery and truth that, “God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery . . which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:26-28. The origin is clear; the possibility is real; the outcome is certain. It is a tragic mistake to accept less than is promised and possible. Sometimes, the status quo may seem good enough. Be advised; settling for what comes naturally, will compromise a potential that is only available spiritually.

God’s determination and desire for you have not changed. ”In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, that we who first trusted in Christ should be to the praise of His glory.” Ephesians 1:11-12. Before a complex theological concept of “predestination” bewilders you, consider Paul’s words, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Read Romans 8:28-30 NIV. As you soon discover, all that happens is not good, but at all times God is working for the good of those whose love trusts and rests in His righteous character rather than their present circumstance.

“For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son . .” Romans 8:29 NIV. That is your destiny in Christ. The process by which God accomplishes that is two-fold: transformation and conformation. In its simplest form, the Biblical concept of “predestination,” describes, “a decision God made long ago.” Exactly how and where the sovereignty of God and the free will of man intersect, I do not know; I just know that in the purpose, providence, and power of God, your history becomes a workshop where God continues to achieve your destiny. Concern yourself with the purpose; let God care for the process.

Paul further explains God’s purpose and the process by which that is achieved. “He chose them long ago; when the time came He called them; He made them righteous in His sight, and then lifted them to the splendour of life as His own sons.” Romans 8:30 JBPhillips. After spiritual transformation – which Paul describes as, “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself.” (2 Corinthians 5:17-21) – spiritual conformation is the Holy Spirit’s assignment in your life, and He is very good at what He does. See 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 NIV. Spiritual transformation happens in a moment; spiritual conformation into Christ-likeness continues life-long. Alone you can accomplish neither; both require your cooperation.

The result will be glorious. “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9 NKJV. In Christ alone, immeasurable potential is possible. “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” Ephesians 3:2o NIV.

But you must shoulder a responsibility in this process of spiritual conformation, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy . . do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:1-2 NIV. Until transformation occurred, you were being conformed to the world which surrounds you; since transformation occurred, you are being conformed to God who is within you.

Today, my prayer for you is to know and progressively develop the God-given potential within.