Transformation

Transformation is an iconic idea in our culture. We think of it in terms of weight loss, getting in shape, and building muscle to give ourselves a look that we dream of. We think of it in this form most of the time as people sell gym memberships and the idea of doing anything we set our mind to do.

Don’t get me wrong, being in shape, eating healthy, and doing our best in life are things we should all seek to do. I believe God wants us to live a healthy life and maximize the tools that we have through our body and our strength. However, this idea of transformation is not the highest form of it. There is something deeper for you and for me, and it changes everything in our world. It’s so important to remember, in Christ the internal is greater than the external. It’s from within that dictates the nature of who we are and the output we give to those around us. We can be in great physical shape and look our best, even making others wish they looked like us, but at the same time be totally corrupted by an internal sickness that Jesus so desperately wants to heal.

The beautiful thing about transformation through God, is that anyone can have it. Our physical stature, our popularity, or our finances, have nothing to do with the opportunity that we have through Christ. The best life is found in Him and being transformed is the chance of a lifetime!

Look what Romans 12:1-2 says –

“1. And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice? The kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 2. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

Romans 12:1-2

Notice the emphasis of being transformed by changing the way we think. This is huge! This is also a process that you and I walk out in our faith. I’ve learned this doesn’t happen in a moment but rather overtime walking with God and letting him have our lives.

But why is this difficult?

Transformation is something that we seek, and it is something that we can’t give to ourselves. We have to discover it and have it through Jesus. Yet it’s difficult because, it’s going into our habits and behaviors and reworking them to please God.

Think about the power that our habits and behaviors have on us. They determine how we respond to pressure. They determine what we do when we deal with stress. They determine how we celebrate. They dictate how we interact with others and they form our daily routines. Yet, Jesus wants to go in and rework these things so that we please God. Yes, having transformation is a big deal and we need it.

Receiving His healing is one thing. Walking out that healing is another level.

However, this is possible through Jesus and it’s the next step in being made whole. We can be whole! Our hearts can be mended, our lives can be healed, our past can be clean, and our future can be filled with hope. This is more than a dream, this is living in Jesus, and He’s able to do anything in our lives. How exciting, how thrilling and how challenging this is.

The good news is, that God can do what we can’t; therefore, Transformation brings changed habits and changed behavior.

Yet, please be patient with yourself and give God a chance to do the impossible. It takes time to change habits and behaviors, but God is patient and He gives us new mercies every morning.

We can be a different person. He can make us better than we ever dreamed of. He can take us, mold us and shape us, bringing something new through our lives, because with God nothing is impossible.

What area of your life do you want this Transformation?

Whatever it is, take active steps forward in faith. Be a part of groups weekly. Receive accountability in your life. Talk to someone and be honest with them. Read the Bible every day. Let God begin to shape behaviors and habits in a new way.

“3. Long ago the Lord said to Israel: “I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself.”

Jeremiah 31:3

His love is ever lasting. His loving kindness is better than life. His plans are secure. Our part is to reach for Him. Giving Him our lives and seeing what the God of Heaven has for us.

Remember, through we can do this. Any habit or behavior can change. His power and love are limitless. So keep going! He’s with you and He will bring you into Transformation!

Have a great week and the best is yet to come,

PD