The difference I didn’t see

It took me a long time to understand the difference between what I thought a follower of God looks like… and actually being one.

I had the image down—someone who believes in Jesus, prays, attends their church or fellowship meetings, tries to be a good person through restraint, etc. That’s what I thought following God meant: believing the right things and doing my best.

But deep down, something still felt… off. I was “checking the boxes,” but I wasn’t changing beyond a surface level.

Over time—and mostly through struggle and failure—I began to see the real invitation. It wasn’t just to believe in Him. It was to become like Him.

The thing people hate about Mormonism (ya know, becoming like Christ) is actually the ticket.

That shift changes everything. It’s not about appearances. It’s not about saying the right words. It’s about learning to love like He does. Forgive like He does. Sacrifice, serve, and speak truth like He does.

It’s about taking upon yourself the name of Christ and doing so not in vain.

You know that old adage—WWJD: What Would Jesus Do? It really is a good one. But make it even more personal: What would Jesus do if He were you?

Ask that… then do it.

That’s where the peace is. That’s where the joy lives. Not in trying to look like a Christian, but in actually becoming like Christ.

That’s the difference. And it’s worth everything.

“Now I ask you, my brothers and sisters of the congregation: Have you spiritually been born of God? Have you received His image in your own countenances? Have you experienced this powerful change to your hearts?” (Ama 3:3 CE)

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