FROM ADORATION TO TRANSFORMATION
Kimberly Portillo
Today's Scripture: "For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers." Romans 8:29, ESV
Theme: A humble and willing worshiper offers adoration, is thankful for acceptance, and allows God to conform that worshiper into His image.
A HUMBLE AND WILLING HEART
When we come humbly and willingly, God confirms us, not by applauding our effort, but by shaping our identity. In His presence, rough edges soften. In His love, insecurity quiets. In His holiness, we are refined. Worship is not just singing or speaking of praise; it is willingly allowing ourselves to be transformed.
Humility says, “You are God.”
Willingness says, “You are my God. I am Yours.”
Gratitude says, “Thank You for receiving me.”
Transformation says, “Make me like You.”
This means:
- Your struggles are not wasted.
- Your growth is intentional.
- Your future is secure in God’s sovereign love.
THE YEAR THAT SHAPED US
Last year, my family and I walked through some of the most difficult trials we've ever faced. We received a life-changing diagnosis; my husband required back surgery, which put him out of commission for four months; and I experienced the heartbreaking loss of a baby at five months pregnant.
In many ways, we were humbled by the weight of it all, forced to lean on the support and prayers of those around us. It felt like we were walking through fire, but amid the struggle and pain, God was faithfully at work. Through every trial, He had been shaping us, refining our hearts, and drawing us closer to the image of Christ. While the journey was undeniably hard, I can see how it has transformed us and deepened our faith.
My motto for the year has definitely been inspired by Psalm 34:1, "I will bless the Lord at all times." Through everything we’ve walked through, I can honestly say I’ve come to deeply understand that verse in a way I never did before.
I used to wonder why people struggled with anxiety or why certain challenges seemed so overwhelming for others. But through my own pain, I experienced it firsthand. Through that season, God met me in that weight; and He gave me a compassion and empathy for others that I never had before. I learned what it truly means to rely on God in the darkest of times, and He faithfully led me out of the mess I was in.
Now, I can look back and see how God’s strength carried me through, and how, even during the struggle, I could still bless Him and praise His Name. That has been a powerful transformation.
Today instead of asking, “Why is this happening?” consider asking, “How is God shaping me to look more like Jesus through this?” You are known.
You are chosen.
You are being transformed. And the One who began this work will faithfully complete it.
Make It Personal: Today, come before God with open hands:
- Praise Him for who He is.
- Thank Him that you are accepted in Christ.
- Invite Him to continue molding you into His image.
A humble and willing worshiper does not just sing about transformation…they surrender to it.
Pray: Thank You for Your gracious acceptance of me. I come before You with adoration and gratitude, offering You my life, my song, and all that I am. I surrender not only what I have, but also all that I have walked through. I place every experience in Your hands and ask that You use it for Your glory.
Shape me according to Your will. Form me into Your image. Let my life bring honor to Your holy Name. Make me into the person You have called me to be. Order my steps, guide my decisions, and strengthen me in times of trial.
Here I am, Lord, with a willing and humble heart. Amen.
Read: Philippians 1:6, Romans 12:1-2
Weekly Memory Verse: “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:2-3, ESV