Most self-help programs demand willpower. They tell you to make rules, track your habits, and force yourself to change. But the New Covenant offers a different path.

Paul describes the process of Christian change:

"But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord."2 Corinthians 3:18 (NKJV)

The Greek word (metamorphoumetha) μεταμορφούμεθα — "we are transformed" is translated as "transformed." This is where we get the word metamorphosis.

Notice who does the work. You do not transform yourself. The Spirit of the Lord performs the transformation. Your only job is to behold the glory of Jesus.

Where do you behold Him? You see Him in the mirror of the Word. When you read about His grace, His love, and His finished work, you look at Him. As you look, the Holy Spirit changes your character.

You do not change by trying harder; you change by looking at Jesus longer.