by John Boone
”Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? Isaiah 43:18-19
Our goal as disciples of Jesus is to become more and more like Him. In order for that to become a reality, the Holy Spirit is actively at work molding, conforming and transforming us into the image of Jesus. In other words, He is working in us to change us so that we become deeper worshippers of Him, greater reflectors of His love for one another, more dedicated in service to His kingdom and brighter lights to share His love to the world.
The problem with change is that it goes against our nature. It is uncomfortable. But, it is necessary. God is relentless when it comes to working change in His disciples. We become like one of those construction projects that says, “Sorry for the mess. We are currently under construction. Thank you for your patience.”
God loves us so much He puts us into situations and relationships where change can be worked in us. That includes church! “But church is supposed to be safe!” Safe, yes. Comfortable, no. We hear messages that rub us. We have to learn how to love those that may be difficult to love. We have had to get used to not only a new paint color in the sanctuary, but now a new seating arrangement?!
In Matt. 18:3, Jesus said: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Those are pretty strong words, wouldn’t you say? It sounds like the process of change is not optional within the kingdom of God. It is an inner transforming work that begins at salvation and never ends!
We live in relationship with God, who loves us and is changing us. He does not want us to get too comfortable or settled. He desires to do a new thing in each of us so that we reflect His image for us to accomplish His work on earth. Ask God to continue to change you by the power of the Spirit living within you. Paul said it well in 2 Cor. 3:18, “And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
