Transformation vs. Change

“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 ESV

“What lies behind us, and what lies before us, are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”—Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Testing. We are encouraged to test. We do as children, adolescents and adults. We discover, sometimes painfully, what works and what doesn’t. If we don’t test and aren’t tested we become tossed around by what is popular, easy or shiny. Mentors, teachers, counselors and friends can help, but the tests are ours. Some painful lessons are the price. Even Jesus “learned obedience.”

Changes will happen when you let the Spirit guide you. The Spirit helps us focus on what is true.  And you’ll be surprised by the changes within you! Others will probably notice positive changes in you before you do. Changes happen as we learn to focus on what is true, honorable, lovely and praiseworthy – not behaviors alone. Focus on the potato chips and guess what will happen. Focus on the drink…

Have you ever daydreamed or envisioned the end of something you want? Since I was a five-year-old, I envisioned having a horse and so I read about horses, watched every horse movie, talked to horse people, went to horse shows and asked around for a gentle horse and presto! A horse! I didn’t dwell on being a beginner, untrained, “it’ll never happen” or finances. Somehow the changes I needed came. Somehow the people to help showed up and became real “horse blessings.” It’s the same with becoming more like Jesus. The change happens because we focus on him, learn about Him, learn from Him and share with others about him. Transformation.

Transformers. Think about Paul’s transformation! He thought he had it made as a Pharisee snarling at and killing Christians with delight. Paul was focused on climbing up the ladder of his faith envisioning all the Earthly rewards and recognition that comes with it. He sure wasn’t focused on what is true, lovely or praise-worthy. However, Light struck him!  No one would have guessed he would become the beloved apostle and famous writer of love, mercy and grace. It is a powerful example of transformation. It is happening in us, for us and for the Father.  It may not happen as quickly as it did for Paul, but it is happening. We just need to surrender to receive it.

Musings

Emerson is right: What lies within us is the important thing—transformation through the Holy Spirit. Self-improvement is focused on self and has a place in our lives: what can we do, think or create to improve? This is not a bad thing because the Father gave us unique talents while transforming those unique talents for his glory. Think of the people who have been transformed and done many good things; not just the famous but those in your households or communities. The Father is doing this for you and for Him too “beyond all we could ask or think.” We don’t do it alone.

Prayer

Dear Father,

With the Holy Spirit and your Son, we become more than is possible. We can change our clothes, change our minds and change the channel but transformation is impossible without You. Thank you for this “indescribable gift.”

Amen.