Different on Purpose: The Character of a Methodist
Wednesday June 3, 2026
Scripture: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:35
Reflection:
One of the questions early Methodists regularly asked each other as they gathered for small group was, “How is it with your soul?” Not, How busy are you? How successful are you? How much have you accomplished this week? But, How is your soul?
John Wesley believed the Christian life was not about appearances. It was about transformation. He wasn’t primarily interested in what label someone wore or what group they belonged to. He wanted to know whether the grace of God was changing their heart.
That may be one of the hardest questions for us to answer today. We live in a culture that teaches us to measure ourselves by achievement, productivity, and appearance. We know how to tell people we’re busy. We know how to tell people we’re fine. We know how to tell people what we’ve accomplished. But how often do we stop long enough to ask what is happening in our soul? Wesley believed that a transformed heart would eventually produce a transformed life. The evidence wasn’t perfection it was growth. The evidence was becoming more like Jesus. So maybe instead of focusing on everything you need to accomplish, take a few moments to pay attention to your soul. Ask yourself, Am I growing closer to God? Am I becoming more loving? Am I showing grace to others?
Is Christ shaping my character? What kind of person is God’s grace producing in me?
Again friends the goal is not perfection it’s transformation.
Consider This:
- Ask someone you trust, “How is it with your soul?” Then take the time to truly listen.
- You may discover that one of the greatest gifts we can offer another person is simply being present, listening well, and reminding them that they are not alone.
Prayer: Lord Jesus,Thank You for loving me exactly where I am and too much to leave me there. Help me to slow down and pay attention to my soul. Reveal the places where I need Your grace, Your healing, and Your guidance.Shape my heart so that my life reflects Your love. Help me to grow in kindness, humility, compassion, and faithfulness. Make me less concerned with appearances and more concerned with becoming the person You created me to be.Continue Your transforming work in me.In Jesus’ name,Amen.