At the end of the year, we often take inventory of ourselves, our family, our lives, to see what has gone well and what has not, and maybe to decide if we should try to make some changes starting out in the new year. We may want to make some physical improvements (or slow down the changes), and modify what we eat, how we exercise, how we sleep, our hair color, or other physical things to see if we can help our appearance. We may also decide that our attitudes or behaviors need adjusted and consider what may help in these areas. Maybe we should decrease media or screen time, make more time for those we love, take more rest breaks, say no to some things, or forgive more quickly. There are a lot of things we can do to try to change who we are or how we are perceived by others, but how long do those changes last, and does it truly change us? What are two things you would like to change about yourself or your current life situation?
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16
If you are truly a born again believer, you have an understanding of what it means to be transformed. There was the old you, who was (even unknowingly) dead in sin, and then you became a new person through the forgiving power of Christ’s atonement for your sins. This may have made you feel like a new person, and may continue to do so each time you experience that forgiveness today. But we may all still struggle with ‘acceptable sins’ or limited growth in certain areas of our lives, where it takes more than just wanting for us to change. Do we believe God can still change and heal us even today? Have we asked Him to help, or have we been willing to let others help us?
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Psalm 51:10
The more you abide in Christ, may you continue to be transformed more and more into His likeness, so that the fruits of His Spirit become more evident in your life. As your heart is transformed, may this be expressed more often as joy, hope, and love in your life. Our time here in this world is limited for us all, but no matter how young or old, we can make each day count greatly as we live for and are transformed by Him!
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Yours in Christ,
Clark
