Devotional: Reflecting Christ Through Our Behaviour
By John Wadsworth
Scripture: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
In the Living Wholeness Approach, the Physical circle represents how we engage with the world around us. It is a two-way channel—where we express our emotions and beliefs, but also where external influences can shape the deeper aspects of our being, ultimately reaching our hearts.
Reflecting on our time in China, my family and I often felt like we were living in a goldfish bowl. As foreigners in a close-knit community, we stood out—our actions were constantly observed, from how we ate to the things we bought or the way we dealt with problems. We quickly realized that every detail of our lives was visible, and our behaviour spoke volumes.
More recently, while training in India with a small team, I’ve become acutely aware of how my behaviour can be influenced by my environment. In new and challenging dynamics—or when exhaustion sets in—unhealthy habits can creep in. Sometimes, my time with the Lord is neglected as commitments pile up, or I become irritable with others. Yet, by God’s grace, the team has been gracious, loving, and supportive, showing patience and understanding. This has prompted me to ask myself, “Do my actions truly reflect my relationship with Christ?”
A Transformed Life: When we accept Christ, we become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). This transformation should be evident in our behaviour—how we treat others, respond to challenges, and make decisions. It’s not just about avoiding sin but actively pursuing righteousness, kindness, and integrity.
Reflecting Christ Daily: Living out our faith requires intentionality. We must be mindful of our actions, remembering that we are Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20). This involves:
Demonstrating love and grace, even in difficult situations.
Serving others selflessly.
Speaking truth with kindness and wisdom.
Living with integrity, even when no one is watching.
Walking in the Spirit: The Holy Spirit empowers us to live in a way that honours God. Galatians 5:22-23 speaks of the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. As we yield to the Spirit, our behaviour becomes a natural reflection of Christ.
Yet, as humans, we will sometimes stumble, drifting toward self-centeredness. Thankfully, we can always return to Christ, acknowledge our failures, and seek His forgiveness and restoration. We are all on a journey of transformation. Let’s continue to be aware of our weaknesses, pressing on to live out our lives in the fruit of the Spirit.
Prayer: Lord, help me reflect Your love and character in all I do. Let my actions point others to You. Empower me by Your Spirit to walk in obedience and shine Your light in every aspect of my life. Amen.
Reflection: Take time today to evaluate your actions. Are they reflecting Christ to those around you? Seek His guidance in areas where you may struggle to live out your faith fully.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
When I think about behaviour, I naturally think about actions—what a person is doing. But beyond the visible, behaviour is a window into the unseen: our thoughts, emotions, motivations, and beliefs. In psychology and counselling, we often explore behaviour-6 by asking questions like:
What is the reason behind this behaviour?
What need does it fulfil?
What does this action help someone achieve?
These questions help us move beyond surface-level observations and into deeper understanding. Why do people do what they do? And even more importantly, why do we do what we do?
The Power of Habits and Intentional Living
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on habits—how to cultivate good ones and replace unhealthy ones. Sometimes, I catch myself engaging in behaviours I know are unhelpful or even detrimental. Why do I keep doing them? Are they simply automatic? Or is there a deeper longing behind them?
Recently, I considered doing a social media fast because I realized I was spending far too much time mindlessly scrolling. A friend, however, suggested a different approach: instead of just abstaining, I should reflect—What am I seeking when I reach for my phone?
Is it boredom?
A dopamine hit?
A form of escape?
This simple shift in perspective changed my approach. It wasn’t just about breaking a habit but about understanding its root cause. Often, our behaviours serve as symptoms of something deeper—perhaps unmet emotional needs, stress, or even a misplaced longing for connection.
I realise not all behaviours carry moral significance. Some are simply neutral—like how we fold our clothes or how we arrange books on a shelf. These actions don’t necessarily reveal much about our character. However, other behaviours—such as how we treat others, how we react under pressure, or the choices we make in difficult situations—can reveal what is truly in our hearts.
Jesus made this clear when He said, “Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45). Our actions, words, and even habits are often an expression of what is happening internally. This is why true transformation isn’t just about behaviour modification—it’s about heart renewal.
Jesus: The Perfect Example of Purposeful Living
When we look at Jesus, we see that His behaviours were never random or impulsive. Everything He did—whether forgiving sins, healing the sick, or challenging the Pharisees—was intentional and reflected the heart of the Father.
His actions were rooted in love. Even when correcting or rebuking, He did so with compassion.
He lived in obedience to God’s will. He didn’t act based on emotions or convenience but in alignment with divine purpose**e.
He remained consistent in His character. Whether in times of celebration or suffering, His behaviour reflected the same grace and truth.
As followers of Christ, we are called to mirror this intentionality. Our actions should not be driven by habit alone but by a deep desire to glorify God in all we do.
Identity First, Behaviour Second
There’s a common belief that behaviour shapes identity. For example, someone who wants to be fit and healthy may start exercising regularly, and over time, their actions reinforce their identity as a disciplined and health-conscious person.
However, from a Christian perspective, transformation begins the other way around—from the inside out. Instead of merely adjusting our behaviour to fit a new identity, we need to allow God to transform our hearts, and from that transformation, our behaviour naturally changes and with long lasting effect showing a deep transformation.
Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Our identity in Christ—being children of God, redeemed and made new—should be the foundation from which our actions flow. Rather than striving to behave in a certain way to become more Christian, we let God work within us, and our behaviours begin to reflect His love, grace, and righteousness.
A Challenge to Reflect
Perhaps the challenge for us today is not just to examine what we do but to ask ourselves why we do it.
Do our behaviours bring us closer to God, or do they distract us?
Are we living in a way that allows others to see Christ through us?
Do our habits reflect intentional choices, or are they just mindless routines?
Let us strive to live with purpose, allowing our actions to shine as a testimony of God’s love and grace. May we be intentional in our0 choices, mindful of our habits, and always seeking to glorify God in everything we do.
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” – 1 Samuel 16:7
What happens or comes to your mind when you meet someone? You will first notice their outward appearance right? How they appear in terms of their face, hair, physical state, dressing or mood. Whether they look happy, sad, tired or some other emotion.
That’s normal and what we naturally do when we meet anyone.
We check ourselves out in the mirror to make sure we are looking decent and fine before we step out of our home. But sometimes, on certain bad days, we might not even bear to take a look at ourselves, let alone care about our appearance in the mirror.
And when this happens, what do we do? Well, some of us would mask our true appearance. We hide under our made-up hair, fancy make up, a favorite cap, nice clothes or even force on a (fake) smile. Just to tell others or ourselves that we look or feel ok, even when we’re not. There are then some of us who would prefer to stay real, and let the truth about how we’re feeling or doing on the inside come out on our outside – like not caring anymore about what we wear or how we look, and just letting it be laid bare, moody vibes, being bed ridden, no make-up, bad hair day, zits and all (I know I have done this before)!
As the old saying goes, and like this picture and God Himself says in the bible verse above, looks can be deceiving; never judge a book by its cover (or appearance).
In the picture, the outward appearance of the tattooed man is causing the other men & lady to judge him wrongly even though he is actually telling Christ that his heart is His. This reiterates what God already knows and said in 1 Samuel 16:7 – God looks at the heart, not the outward appearance, as man sees.
God looks past our external façade, to what is deeper and behind the surface of our selves – our heart.
Why? Because that’s what matters. To Him and to us. In the 5 Circles, Appearance appears as a sector in the Physical circle. It is like the entrance or doorway into the sectors and circles deeper and below it: Mood, Love (Mind & Heart circles), and Spirit circle.
Whether it is yourself, your client, a family member or stranger, you can sometimes tell how a person’s mood is from their dressing, posture, facial or outward appearance. For example, a disheveled, worn out, unsmiling or tired appearance could indicate a sad, anxious, angry or low mood, where the person’s heart and spirit is definitely affected.
Or, conversely, someone smiling, and wearing colourful clothes could be in a joyful or positive mood.
And then, we can also have the situation with the picture above – someone appearing like a tough gangster or risqué individual on the outside, being earnestly in need of God on the inside of his mind, heart and spirit, where we don’t tangibly see it.
God doesn’t want us to judge anyone by their cover, looks or appearance, because its what’s inside the person that counts.
I’m reminded of a few clients I know, whom God brought my way to teach me about looking past their appearances, and into their heart. One of them was going through gender transitioning from being a female/tomboy to male. Covered in tattoos & piercings, looking very much like a guy almost from head to toe, my heart broke for her, as we built trust over time and she told me her story of what had been going on in her life as a child till her present state, which had ultimately caused her to choose to have her current physical appearance, and gender transitioning. Though she initially intimidated me (like that picture above) because of her outward appearance, I began to see what God saw – her heart and inner state of a precious and broken child in desperate need of safety, acceptance, love, trust, God’s healing and deliverance.
God knows the importance of looking past appearances, into the heart. To truly see, know, understand and love a person.
His dear Son, our precious Saviour, identified with us all before we were at our worst –
Jesus was described in His appearance, mind, heart and spirit sectors as this, in Isaiah 53: 2-3:
“He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.”
To me, it’s almost as if God is saying “You would think that as the Almighty God, I should have made my Son like Me – gloriously glamorous, perfect everyday in His outward and inward state. But, the truth is, in your human eyes, my Son was not attractive nor desirable in His appearance. He was familiar with moods of sadness, grief and depression, from all the rejection, pain and suffering he bore from mankind. And in his heart and spirit, Jesus was despised, unloved and made to feel no worth or esteem. Crushed. … So He could be with you and you in Him, whenever you were ever feeling at your worst.”
Have you come across or known someone who has ever felt or been this way before?
… Jesus understands & identifies. Appearance, Mood, Mind, Heart & Spirit. God sees and knows.
And He bore it for us, with us. So that in our worst state possible, we wouldn’t be alone.
I’m grateful that for all our sakes, God never judges us based on our outward appearance, but our heart. And when our heart, mind and spirit is at home with Him, through Christ (like being at home position on the combi-shape), we will find what we need – acceptance, hope, salvation, empathy and understanding… the list goes on.
God wants our hearts, mood-mind and spirit to be at home with Christ. So that we can truly reflect Him in our outward appearance too. Just like David whom God appointed to be king, we might even have favour with God. Because of our heart’s right posture with God, and the spiritual state of where it is at – not our outward appearance.
When the inside circles are right with God, the outer appearance and countenance of a person will reflect it. Likewise when it is not reflecting it.
Regardless of how we appear (and God still cares for this part of ourselves; He knows it can affect our mood, thoughts, heart and spirit), what’s more important to God is our heart.
Minding our heart, mind and spirit (which make up the ‘inner man’) is a part of our sanctification process. And as we also know, this process is a really long journey. Both for ourselves and anyone we serve and love, like our family members or clients.
So, while we are still on this long road, taking it one gracious step with Him at a time,
my question to you as a fellow brother or sister in Christ, is:
“How’s the appearance or state of your heart looking like today?
What might God be wanting to say to you about looking past your or someone’s outer appearance, and reflecting His heart?”
… God bless you.
And, from a heartfelt place of love and truth, God & I just want you to know, however you think you appear, You already are gorgeous to Him too!
To be honest, appearance is one of the areas I focus on the least. I do mention it in my “observation” section of the iDoc, but my emphasis is more on outward expression—the observation of the mind and heart. Shopping centers, on the other hand, are all about appearance!
When I told my wife, Jill, that I was writing this blog, she lovingly laughed because she knows I’m not great with clothes! Growing up as a missionary kid in India, clothing was, as it were, optional but required (in other words, it didn’t really matter what you wore, as long as you or something)! In contrast, Jill’s father managed one of the finest menswear stores in New Zealand, and for her, external appearance is an expression of her internal vibrancy.
This difference became an interesting challenge in our marriage—Jill wanted to dress me up, and she’s done a great job! (I think I might be the “most improved” in this area! 😊😊)
2. What does the Bible say about appearance—for both men and women?
For Men:
Remember when Samuel was searching for a king among Jesse’s sons? He was impressed by their strong, masculine appearance, but God had a different perspective:
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’” —1 Samuel 16:7
For Women:
The Bible also speaks about appearance for women:
“Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within …” —1 Peter 3:3-4 (NLT)
For both men and women, the deeper, inner appearance is what truly matters.
3. What Does the Bible Say About the Appearance of the Triune God?
Jesus’ Appearance:
I was deeply moved—brought to tears—when Dave in a LWTP (pre PACT) spoke about the presence of Jesus, using the circles and sectors will. His true appearance shone so brightly. I’ve tried to capture this in CURE 3 over about 8 pages, in the section on Jesus’ “life illustrated by the circles.”
The Bible describes Jesus’ earthly appearance in Isaiah 53:2:
“He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him, nothing in His appearance that we should desire Him.”
He came in human form, as seen in Philippians 2:8:
“He was found in appearance as a man.”
Yet, in Mark 9:2-3, NLT, during His transfiguration, we catch a glimpse of His divine glory:
“Jesus’ appearance was transformed, and His clothes became dazzling white—far whiter than any earthly bleach could ever make them.”
A time will come when we will see Him fully revealed:
“When Christ appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. All who have this hope in Him purify themselves, just as He is pure.” —1 John 3:2-3
And in Revelation 1:13-17, John describes the breathtaking vision of Jesus:
“Dressed in a robe reaching down to His feet, with a golden sash around His chest. The hair on His head was white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of rushing waters… His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance.”
Upon seeing this, John fell at His feet as though dead, but Jesus reassured him:
“Do not be afraid.”
The Appearance of the Father and the Holy Spirit:
We can also explore the appearance of God the Father—the expression of His deeper glory. (Where would you place glory on the “circles” and “sectors”?)
And what about the Holy Spirit? He appeared in different forms:
As a dove at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry.
As fire at the beginning of the disciples’ ministry.
A Final Reflection
Take a moment to look at Jesus, the Father, and the Holy Spirit. Pay attention to what you notice. Be in His presence. Gaze at Him. See what happens
If you were seeing a doctor, would you like one with a great attitude but lacks knowledge and not very skillful? Or would you prefer to see a doctor with a terrible attitude but has great knowledge and is very skillful? Of course, ideally it would be great to see a doctor who has a great attitude, skill and knowledge. Even better than that would be to see a doctor that has been transformed by Jesus Christ along with incredible attitude, skills and knowledge. In TASK, T-A-S-K refers to the Transformation, Attitude, Skill and Knowledge.
Sometimes I think that S (skill) and K (knowledge) is something I feel easier to work on. It’s more tangible, measurable and something I have more control over. I can set goals, monitor and see how I have increased my skills and knowledge. I can attend courses, read articles and maybe even find opportunities for me to practice some skills to help increase my knowledge and skills. Better yet I might even have opportunities to teach to solidify and grow my skills and knowledge. There’s always more knowledge to learn and new skills to attain.
What skills and knowledge are you hoping to increase in 2025?
What skills and knowledge have you learnt in the last few years?
With A (attitude) I feel it’s more difficult to see how I have grown in these. My attitude can fluctuate and change in different circumstances along with my energy levels, my emotions and thoughts. Some days my attitude towards people or circumstances are kind, patient and God-centred and other days they are not so kind, not very patient and self-centred. The thing I find about attitude is that it is not as linear or easy to track compared to skills and knowledge. Generally with skills and knowledge, once you learn it, you might need to refresh every now and then, however with attitude, it needs a daily refreshing. How have my attitudes been God-centred or self-centred when I interact with my family, my colleagues, strangers, friends? Were there situations today that I was self-centred in my attitudes? I find that sometimes doing a daily check helps keep my attitude God-centred or at least aware of when I am God-centred and self-centred.
Daily Attitude check
How was my attitude towards people today (Including God, self, family, friends, colleagues and strangers)
How was my attitude towards today’s circumstances?
God, reveal to me if there were any selfish attitudes or attitudes that were not pleasing to you to today that I may confess, and refresh me with your spirit to have a God-centred attitude towards people or situations.
As with T (transformation), it’s similar to attitude in that it’s difficult to track and see where, when and what God has done in our lives unless we check it. By transformation, I am referring to the combination of our openness, surrender to God as well as God’s work in us. Similar to attitude, I find that since transformation is the work of God, our openness and surrender to him, it’s been helpful for me to evaluate my transformation by asking these three questions.
Regarding our transformation, we can do a daily reflection or dialogue with God and ask him these three questions
Getting to the TASK: Transformation, changing Attitudes, Skills and Knowledge!
By Carolyn Russell
We recents had holidays. Superb – friends, memories from past, being with our granddaughter REALLY loving cold experiences. We planned, paid, travelled, then walked miles, ate food enjoying fellowship, lived in close quarters ( quite challenging at times!), and yet it was good. The job of a holiday was for a rest break …. to return to life energised..RIGHT?
I returned refreshed and ready in some ways, but there was persistent discomfort in my Heart…. A CONFLICT!
I tried to ignore this discomforting presence in that sector of my heart as I commenced the routine of home life/client work for the New Year– one likely full satisfaction and joy. The true character of the Conflict Sector was being expressed – on the one hand I think and believe ‘this’, on the other hand my body and my mind and spirit are wanting to give me a message that seems ‘opposite’.
The Discomfort continued! Then Sickness! – confined to bed for 2 days after a Gastro bug, it amplified… Shouted VERY LOUD. ‘Take NOTICE’
So, I did. I had to STOP to do so. STOP running busy, STOP getting into my ‘regular’ way and FACE… but WHAT was I learning as I did this?
Well, our God is Invitingly gracious in Discomfort. He wants to always teach us more of Him, to be present to us, as we choose to Centre. His Word is always there for me to read and learn from.
Where did I go in His Word through these sick days….? Well, my brain was jetlag addled, but I prayed for Understanding, then thought of the short words, Do and Be.
These words led me to read a lot of Scripture, illuminating the Discomfort in the Conflict sector….
[ As you read this, open the Scriptures, hear the words about HIM that illuminated, taught, and exhorted me to FACE then to offer Transformation.
Let’s TURN the Eyes of our Hearts (Centre) to Him who knows us]
Three Scripture shone out as I researched Do and Be.
James Chapter 1
Colossians Chapter 3
John Chapter 9
Firstly, there are SKILLS, obvious to all around as they read these chapters. They seem to be all about Tasks… Doing work and activity, ‘putting on’ stuff!
Then hone down:
Col 3: 17 and 3: 22 : The WHOLE, ALL, EVERYTHING words jump out ( CWF!!)
Now, James 1: when we Turn (repent) and Centre on Christ, there is created in us a Heart seeped with righteousness, deeply Soaked in water then Cleansed, Activated, and Being beautiful, LOOKing like Jesus!
Now read John 9: Jesus responded to the blind man, and the crowd in the gospel: He said ‘we must work the works of Him who sent me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world’. Jesus knew that his character was to illuminate, and this led to doing tasks and work, but overall to Responses( his work) which cause the BLIND TO SEE.
So, I spent that day resting, and thinking about CWF, and using the shapes to explore my discomfort
The word TASK on the LW card arrested me – how easy it becomes to DO tasks, get knowledge and apply skills, not allow the Transformation and changed Attitudes from Jesus to seep out i.e.The True TASK. People see the Skills and Knowledge, but the Character is not blessing others.
The discomfort was easing – I was getting it!
Carolyn, you have been sliding back L – over into DOING only, not BEING, and though your outer Circles were fed through the holiday, you did not take time for the Character of Christ to be continually formed, to become more and more HIS.
What have I learned from Him?
Task = DO and yet…. T.A.S.K ≠ BUSY, Doing
T.A.S.K = Being HIS… the WHOLE, ALL of us, With EVERYTHING
After recovering, I read Bible Hub, finding this: ‘… we seek diversion, distraction, and busy-ness to elude the encounter with God, and the examination of self in His presence’. This attitude of Busy-ness had become pervasive for me through the last months, and I needed to notice my Discomfort more. ( this is worth reading if you wish to follow up more on this topic: 2. Process Spirituality: Being Versus Doing | Bible.org)
Thank you Father for the Conflict sector that you have gifted us. We praise You, that You have given us minds, which have thoughts and emotions, and ways of observing ourselves, and hearts which can notice when we are not seated in your gates, learning from You.
Help us all to be more aware of that Sector, to STOP, Feel the discomfort, think about ourselves, and to FACE the truth of our ways, and to Turn for HOME, to the inviting Transformational presence of Christ in Word and Spirit.
Then help us by the Spirit’s power to submit ourselves to be Cleansed Soaked Refreshed, and to BE yours while there is light.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Heb 12:1+2 (NIV)
Why the cross?
Some time ago a friend asked me: Steffi, you keep sharing about this Living Wholeness stuff and I notice you always speak about the cross. Coming to the cross, the cross activity…. Why don’t you say “Coming to God or the Jesus-Activity?”. Why the Cross? My friend’s question made me think. As E-team we spend some time together to think exactly about this question. It was a wonderful time collecting our understanding about the cross and sharing memories at the cross with each other.
What is the cross for you?
The cross has so many aspects: Ironically the first thoughts what comes to me is “the well of life”. It was meant to be a tool of death but to many of us it is a place of life. We are surrounded by destruction and death, but God has plans of hope and future for us. This brings me to the next thought: the place of exchange. I remember sitting during a LW “cross-activity” with a heavy heart, full with me and my anxiety and deep frustration. The cross in front of me. With my head knowledge hoping but not really believing that this “could work”. The time came for me decide to bring it to Jesus, letting go and walk over to the other side. Receiving – HIS assurance that He knows. He knows my anxiety, anger and unbelief and with that came the peace of Christ in my heart – and in my head.
Testimony – A pastor from Sri Lanka explained it this way:
“I am a person I didn’t have any trust or had not a good thought about counseling. I rejected that. So 41years I thought there is no need for counseling. I thought spiritual support is enough but I am going back – having learned now with Living Wholeness there is a wholistic freedom and I saw the experience of bringing our burdens to the foot of the cross and I saw how this people in this conference where released from their burdens. I want to say thank you to those who worked so hard for this conference to happen.”
There are so many wonderful aspects of the cross. Today was about turning back, deciding to believe in my unbelief. The race of our life is the walk to the cross. Returning to where I belong.
Question
How often do you go to the cross – or the space what the cross represents?
The preaching of the cross is, I know, nonsense to those who are involved in this dying world, but to us who are being saved from that death it is nothing less than the power of God. 1.Cor 1:18 (Philipps)
The shape of the Cross illustrates the profound response from God to humanity—a response that remains constant, whether the recipient acknowledges it or not and it is the essence of spiritual transformation. Within the Christian Wholeness Framework (CWF), the Cross is central to the Response step. It has a dual placement: under the Square, illustrating our position in Christ, and at the centre of the Circles, representing the ongoing process of transformation in our hearts.
In addition to being a symbol of salvation, the cross represents the transformative journey from self-centeredness to God-centeredness. It invites us to consider: “What difference does Jesus make in my life?” This question lies at the heart of our reflection and practice as believers, shaping how we understand our relationship with God and His work in our lives.
The Cross has both vertical and horizontal dimensions that represent our spiritual position and practice. The vertical dimension illustrates our relationship with God—our standing in Christ as forgiven, redeemed, and reborn children of the Father. This position is unshakable, regardless of how we feel or behave. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, we have been reconciled to God and placed into His family. Romans 3:23-24 reminds us, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” On the other hand, the horizontal aspect reflects our life in the world, lived out in relationships and daily actions. It acknowledges that while our position in Christ is secure, our lives may still reflect areas of self-centeredness, pride, and sin. Transformation occurs as we bring these areas to the Cross, receive God’s forgiveness, and realign ourselves to His purposes.
The shape of the Cross invites us to daily apply several truths about our relationship with God. First, His Person reminds us that the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—reveals the fullness of God’s nature and love. Second, His Presence assures us that, by the Spirit, God dwells within us, communing with our spirit and transforming us from within. Third, His Placing of Us highlights that we are forgiven, born again, united with Christ, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Fourth, His Purposes for Us reveal that God calls us to intimacy with Him, to love others, to imitate Christ, and to join Him in His mission to the world. Finally, His Provisions for Us remind us that God equips us with unfailing love, forgiveness, freedom, fullness, and strength to fight the good fight.
The Spirit Circle corresponds to the ongoing work of transformation at the Cross. It reflects God’s unchanging response to the human heart, providing truths that remain constant regardless of our circumstances.
Unshakable Position in Christ
Our position in Christ is secure. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” This truth applies even when we struggle with doubt, fear, or selfishness. Our identity as God’s beloved children remains unchanged.
God’s Presence Within Us
In our position of being born again, we have the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit. Revelation 21:3-4 promises, “God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”
Living with Purpose
We are created for intimacy with Christ and called to imitate Him. As John 17:18 says, “As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.” This purpose gives our lives meaning and direction.
Provisions for the Journey
God’s provisions enable us to live transformed lives:
unFailing Love: God’s love replaces shame and brings intimacy with Him (Psalm 52:8, Romans 5:5).
Forgiveness: Through the Cross, we are justified and freed from guilt (Romans 5:8-9, John 19:30).
Freedom: In Christ, we are set free from sin and empowered by the Spirit (John 8:36, Galatians 5:22-23).
Fullness: We are filled with Christ’s life and joy as we abide in Him (John 15:4, Colossians 2:10).
Fight a Good Fight: We are equipped to face challenges and grow in resilience (Ephesians 6:13, 1 Timothy 1:18).
journey of transformation involves moving from self-centeredness to God-centeredness through daily encounters with the Cross. The Combined shape of the Square and the Cross symbolises this process: as we bring our sin, pain, and brokenness to the foot of the Cross, we experience God’s grace and are restored to healthy, God-centered functioning.
This transformation is ongoing. The Holy Spirit continually illuminates areas of our lives that need to be surrendered to God—pride, self-righteousness, lack of faith. Each time we respond with repentance, we are renewed and realigned with God’s purposes. As 2 Corinthians 3:18 describes, “We are being transformed into His likeness with ever-increasing glory.”
Even in moments of failure, the Cross offers comfort and assurance. We fall no lower than the foot of the Cross, where God’s forgiveness and grace are always available. Romans 8:1-2 reassures us: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.”
Transformation is not merely a theoretical concept; it must be lived out daily. This practice involves surrendering to God, resisting temptation, and embracing His love and forgiveness. It is a journey marked by both challenges and joys, as we grow into Christlikeness and live out our faith in every aspect of life.
To share my own experience, the Cross at the centre of the Circles became the turning point in my journey of healing and transformation. For a long time, I searched for peace externally—in circumstances, relationships, and achievements—only to find myself restless and unfulfilled. True healing began when I experienced the fullness of God’s 5Ps—His Person, Presence, Provision, Placing, and Purpose—in the deepest part of my being. These truths touched every aspect of who I am—my social, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual self—and began to heal me from the inside out.
This profound experience reshaped how I live out my faith. Each day, I aim to practice using the combined shape of the Cross and Square, sitting at the bottom right corner of the Square, which I now consider my spiritual home. It is here that I bring my weaknesses, self-centeredness, and vulnerabilities before God. As I rest in this place of surrender, I find His grace, love, and strength renewing me. This daily practice fuels my ongoing transformation and sanctification, drawing me closer to Christ and aligning my life with His purposes.
Reflection and Invitation
The shape of the Cross calls us to respond: How is God inviting you to bring areas of self-centeredness to the Cross today? Are there aspects of your life where you need to experience His forgiveness, freedom, or fullness? Take time to reflect on His provisions and promises, and invite the Holy Spirit to illuminate areas of transformation. As you journey with Him, remember: the Cross is not only a place of redemption but also a wellspring of ongoing renewal and grace.
The shape of the pyramid is about relationships and community. Right at the very beginning in the bible, God said, it is not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18). He made us to be in relationship, with himself, with others and ourselves. We need other people. We were designed like this. When we look at the pyramid, we can see the four corners plus God. The pyramid shows us how can we show servant leadership through supporting ourselves, serve and link with others. It’s so important as we serve and lead to
The shape of the pyramid helps me to fulfil the 2nd commandment, love your neighbour as yourself. The pyramid helps me to look after myself through finding supportive relationships such as: family and friends, local church (through church ministry and church community), to get a mentor (people helper), to be able to find people who can help me professionally when the need arises (e.g. Doctor, plumber, accountant, teacher etc). I’ve been moving countries every 2 years for the last 8 years. It’s always been a priority and a struggle to build and sustain my pyramid. For those who have been in one place for a long time, it might be a lot easier to find those supportive people in your life which I hope you do have them. They are so important for our self-care and wellbeing that we may be able to live long and fulfilling lives.
The role of supportive social relationships in our lives is so important. The research from Harvard University “have been seeking the key to a happy life since 1938, in the longest study into happiness ever conducted. After 85 years of research, they’ve concluded that it is our relationships with other people that give us the greatest happiness.” (Scientists found the key to a healthy, happy life: relationships | World Economic Forum)
It’s not just relationships with other people but it’s about quality of the relationship. The research continued saying “Regardless of their backgrounds, those with the strongest personal relationships were not only the happiest but also enjoyed the best overall health and lived longest.” Scientists found the key to a healthy, happy life: relationships | World Economic Forum
The shape of the pyramid also serves another purpose: serving and linking others together. I remember when I was younger, I was always serving people. This was something that through my family upbringing and my own experiences came naturally to me. However, when serving people, I wasn’t always good or natural at linking. I found the pyramid was profound in helping me to serve people holistically through linking with other people. It helps you not be the only person serving one person. It helps to have a team of people serving one person. It reminds of a how a medical or health team combine their different areas of expertise to help a person. Everyone needs their own pyramid. As we serve others, we can try to help the people we are serving build their own pyramids. It’s really tough when you’re serving a person all by yourself. It can be draining, tiring and lead to burnout. It’s been an incredible experience for me when serving as a team. It’s a lot harder, don’t get me wrong, but the joy and the harvest are multiplied.
Recently our son had the amazing opportunity to visit Egypt. Whilst there he was able to climb deep into the centre of one of ancient Pyramids, navigating narrow passages and climbing down ladders. Once at the centre he was filled with a sense of awe and peace knowing that this monument had stood firm for thousands of years.
The Pyramid of Support serves as a powerful reminder of how God uses relationships to sustain and strengthen us. At its head is God Himself—our ultimate source of love, guidance, and sanctification. Surrounding us are four essential corners: family and friends, groups and church, a mentor or support group, and professional help. These interconnected relationships form a framework of support, with us at the centre, rooted in God’s design for community and growth.
During many of our training sessions, participants often highlight the Pyramid of Support as their most valuable takeaway. Those serving in ministry or caregiving roles frequently realize how little personal support they receive. Despite their focus on helping others, it is easy to overlook the importance of maintaining our own health and well-being.
Reflecting on my own life, I see how these relationships have been crucial for maintaining stability and staying connected to God. In challenging times of loss or difficulty in ministry, I’ve been deeply grateful for people who provided comfort, care, or wisdom. I’m equally thankful for those who encouraged me, supported me, and helped me grow.
Let us take a moment to evaluate our own support networks. Even if we have done this exercise before, our circumstances evolve, and it is essential to nurture healthy, loving relationships that keep us connected to God and strengthen one another.
Above all, we must acknowledge that God holds everything together. As the Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer of our lives, He designed us not only to be in relationship with Him but also to rely on the support of others. Colossians 1:17 reminds us, “In Him all things hold together.”
Family and Friends God places family and friends in our lives as our first circle of support. They are the people who know us best and offer love, encouragement, and companionship. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
Groups and Church We are designed to live in community. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us: “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another.” In groups and church, we grow in faith, serve others, and receive mutual encouragement. It is essential to understand that our role is both to receive and to be vessels of God’s love in the community. This is the heart of the Living Wholeness Community—to encourage and support one another in God’s love.
Mentor and Support Group Paul modelled this relationship with Timothy, urging him to remain steadfast in faith (2 Timothy 1:6-7). A mentor provides perspective, helping us recognize God’s work in our lives and challenging us to grow in Christlikeness.
Professional Help The final corner acknowledges the value of professional support—through counselling, therapy, or other expertise. This complements the other corners by addressing areas where deeper healing or growth is needed. Proverbs 15:22 reminds us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness but of wisdom and humility, trusting God to work through those He has equipped to bring restoration.
To flourish in a God-centred life, we must invest in each area nurturing close relationships with family and friends, engaging in church and group fellowship, seeking wisdom from mentors, and turning to professionals when needed. Above all, we must keep God as the head, guiding every aspect of our lives.
The Pyramid of Support is not only a tool to assist others in their journey of healing but also a reminder that we, as caregivers, must maintain our own support networks.
Reflection Questions
How is your connection with God shaping your relationships?
Are you investing in each pillar of your Pyramid of Support?
Is there a specific pillar that needs more attention or strengthening?
Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You for being the centre of our lives and for the relationships You provide to support us. Help us nurture connections with family, friends, church, mentors, and professionals in ways that honour You. May our lives reflect Your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
