God changes me. I didn’t always believe this. Actually, I thought I believed it. I would have told you I believed it. I prayed for God to change me. But one specific day I realized God changes me.
In itself, this day was not remarkable. I was doing life, moving from task to task, interacting on an as-needed basis, helping where I could. Then the unexpected happened…someone that knew me well and had seen me in good and bad situations, said it—“You are one of the most gracious people I know!” I smiled and said, “Thank you.”
I praised God with awe and wonder! No one had ever said I was gracious before. I exclaimed aloud, “You’re doing it God! You are really doing it! I’m not too stubborn or hard-headed for You to change me! Your love is beyond all I can imagine! Do some more, yes, do some more!
I am still a work in progress and God is not done with me, but He really is changing me! (Phil. 1:6)
God’s word tells us how the transformation process begins.
Romans 11:33-12:2
Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways! 34 For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who became His counselor? 35 Or who has first given to Him that it might be paid back to him again? 36 For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.
12 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
A revolutionary change of heart is all about God.
1—Romans 11:33-35—Pray to God, acknowledging His unfathomable ways.
Three short verses tell us that God’s wisdom, knowledge, judgments, and ways are beyond our complete comprehension. He does not need input nor does He owe anyone. He is everything we need.
2—Romans 11:36-12:1—Praise God in spiritual and physical life.
All things are from Him, through Him and to Him. His glory reigns forever. Praise to God is our spiritual service of worship. Praise God in your physical life, even when there is a cost. Praise God in your spiritual life with words and attitude.
3—Romans 12:2—Trust God’s purpose.
God transforms us. He changes our thoughts so that our lives prove out His perfect will. Mentally include God in your day; think about His presence and His purpose in your life.
Pray for God to do His will in you. Praise God’s character, as He is wise, just, incomprehensible, and sovereign. Trust God’s purpose that is eternally good, acceptable, and perfect.
What about my job, other people, school, studies, and life?
Romans 11:33-12:2 does not say to think of nothing but God. It says to realize that He is in charge of all things. As verse 36 says, it’s all from, through and to God, so praise God as you live your life.
1 Corinthians 10:31
Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Intentionally include God everywhere you go. Be aware of His presence. Think about God and pray, as you face new and unexpected challenges. Rejoice in His faithfulness and praise Him for His unchanging character. (Look back at the blog series on “Who Is God?” if you need a place to start.)