The Transformer

 
Read: 2 Corinthians 3:5-18 
Whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son. —Romans 8:29
What is God’s goal for your life? Author Max Lucado summarizes it this way: “God loves you just the way you are, but He refuses to leave you that way. He wants you to be just like Jesus.” This involves change, but we often believe it’s not possible. We say, “I’ve always worried,” or “I’ve always felt angry—I’m just that way.” Yet Paul said in Romans 8:29 that God’s purpose is to make us like Jesus. So what hinders this process?

In his book Just Like Jesus, Lucado tells about a wealthy woman who lived 100 years ago. She was extremely tight with her money, so neighbors were surprised when she had her home wired for electricity. Weeks later, a meter reader noted very little usage, so he asked, “Are you using your power?” “Certainly,” she replied. “Each evening I turn on my lights long enough to light my candles; then I turn them off.”

If we have put our faith in Christ, we too are connected to a power source—the Holy Spirit, who works in us to make us more like Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:18). So let’s not settle for “spiritual candlelight” by being comfortable with our old ways. We need to allow the Holy Spirit to transform our lives and make us like Jesus. Are you using your power? 

Father, thank You for Your Spirit,

Fill us with His love and power;

Change us into Christ's own image

Day by day and hour by hour. —Anon.

Only God's power can transform your life.

 

Verse of the Day

In your hearts, set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.

1 Peter 3:15

New International Version

THOUGHTS ABOUT TODAY'S VERSE...

We are to be ready and able to tell folks about the hope that Jesus has brought to our lives! But when we share this hope, two things are important: our credibility -- is Jesus really Lord of our hearts -- and our character -- do we show gentleness and respect in our approach. The goal is not to win arguments, but hearts to the God of character!

MY PRAYER...

Holy and Loving Father, thank you for speaking your grace in Jesus. I'm not sure I would have heard any other message. Give me the conviction I need to share my hope in Jesus, but in a way that reflects your grace. Through my Living Hope I pray. Amen.