Committed to Christ-like Change - Part Two
“Create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10 (KJV)
As we discussed last week, the Word of God is clear about genuine change. Genuine change cannot take place in the heart without Christ’s ruling influence. Therefore, the catalyst for change is supernatural; not natural. In order to experience Christ-like change, we must renew our minds with the truth of Scripture.
Change that is initiated and navigated by natural, intellectual reformative means does not result in persistent or permanent change. Concepts like self-help, self-conceptualization and self-actualization can never produce the change that Spirit of God delivers. Hear the words of the Lord Jesus Christ as related to real change:
“That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, ye must be born again.” John 3:6-7 (KJV)
“And Jesus looking upon them saith, ‘With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.’” Mark 10:27 (KJV)
The Apostle Paul also pointed out that the power for change for a new life is the Spirit of God’s presence in a person.
“And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” Romans 8:10-11 (KJV)
We all need change. There are countless man-centered concepts for change. Consider with me the plethora of self-help and self-reformation programs that are promoted in order for people to set themselves free from substance abuse, overeating, poor nutrition, fitness issues, mental and emotional health issues, relational issues, and finances, just to name a few.
Now granted, there are a number of tools and techniques, strategies, programs and principles that are productive for change but what requires scrutiny is the source, influence and power to change. Is it natural or supernatural?
“The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.” Job 33:4 (KJV, emphasis added)
“According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:” 2 Peter 1:3 (KJV)
“And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 1:19-20 (KJV)
So in order to be committed to Christ-like and sound change, it is essential that you know that you have been purchased by the power of God, possessed by the power of God, positioned in peace and strength by the power of God, enjoy places of favor and victory by the power of God and the provision to change by power of God.
For the Glory of God,
PBKSR