Transformation

Change of Heart or Positive Thinking

“And we all, with unveiled face, continually seeing as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are progressively being transformed into His image from [one degree of] glory to [even more] glory, which comes from the Lord, [who is] the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 Amplified

“The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty.” – Winston Churchill

Pasting colorful sticky notes of positive thoughts on my mirror, refrigerator, and car dashboard was how I lived as a young woman starting a career. You can do it! Be the change you want! Step out in faith! These notes were my mantras until I painfully discovered I would not be a rock-and-roll star. No amount of positive thinking would change my voice, my limited guitar playing, and my lack of rock image. I visualized myself on stage, bought sweeping, colorful clothes and jewelry, and practiced almost daily. Nope. Not going to happen. Today, I’m very grateful! The problems of fame and fortune at a tender young age could have destroyed or killed me. Was I disappointed? Very much.

Vulnerability. Positive thinking for me was gearing up, putting on a brave front, closing my eyes and jumping in the whirlpool. All I got was exhausted and disappointed. But transformation demands vulnerability. Come as you are to the Father—naked—and He will bring the right direction for you to follow. I know how hard it is to come to the Father wanting to hide our many sins and imperfections. Even Adam and Eve covered up after their bite at the apple. The Father knows.

Focus. The fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, kindness, and self-control will teach us the best way to positive thinking. Asking yourself hard questions, being persistent in prayer, and finding a fellow Christian to mentor you is a good start. I asked how much money could I make, and how many hours were required when seeking employment–important. Now, after some disastrous starts in making life decisions, I ask: Will this bring me peace, love and kindness? Will this be a blessing for my family, friends, and people in my life? The Father promises peace which surpasses understanding.

Musings

Transformation means partnership with the Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit and Jesus pray for us. Peace is in the details. Glory is for the Father.

Prayer

Dear Father,

Thank you for partnering with us and letting us share in Your Glory, which is hard to comprehend.

Today we take hold of Your hand and take on the challenges, triumphs, and disappointments knowing there is a transformation taking place in us for our good and for Your glory.

Amen.

Published by Barbara Hinther

Barbara Hinther author of Meditations and Encouragement for the Caregiver of a Loved One with Dementia and What About Me, God. Time to share what she has learned and hopefully, others will know they are not alone. This too, shall pass with beautiful, yet painful, lessons. Barbara lives in a rural town in Idaho where all is community. Bless everyone in the community for their support and their never-ending let’s pitch in attitude! She worked in marketing for over 30 years and volunteered with the Idaho Youth Ranch and St. Vincent’s de Paul Thrift Store. Then her hardest job ever was caring for her husband who died from Lewy body dementia and needed her full-time care. Feelings of abandonment were constant. Life was very difficult for a while, but love, faith and hope will overcome. Let the adventure continue!

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