By Rev. Dr. Nelda Barrette Murriane, First United Methodist Church of Kennedale
Change is something we usually fear and become anxious about because we feel we have lost control. But we must remember, the good news is that God has a plan for your life to hope, a plan for your future, and a plan for us to prosper. {{more: continue … }}If we trust in God and allow the change to grow within us to become more like Jesus Christ in how think, feel and behave, then we are promised that all things will work together for good for those who love Him and keep His commandments!
In the Bible transformation means “change or renewal from a life that no longer conforms to the ways of the world to one that pleases God” (Romans 12:2). This is accomplished by the renewing of our minds. This an inward spiritual transformation that will manifest itself in our outward actions. Transformation involves those who were once far from God being “drawn near” to Him through the blood of Christ (Ephesians 2:13).
For us to be considered as children of God, we must be led by the Spirit of God. Through the power of God’s Spirit, Christ lives within us. If we are transformed our lives mirror the attitude of the apostle Paul: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. Though I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).
This power of transformation comes from one source. Paul said, “For the message of the cross [the gospel] is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).
The name is JESUS!
“I don’t know how, but I know WHO!”
See you on Sunday!
Peace,
Pastor NeldaFind out more at First United Methodist Church Facebook
