Transforming from the Inside Out
As I gaze into the eyes of my lovable dog, Molly, I’m reminded of the profound truth spoken by Ezekiel: “I will put a new way of thinking inside you. I will take out the stubborn hearts of stone from your bodies, and I will give you obedient hearts of flesh. I will put my Spirit inside you and help you live by my rules and carefully obey my laws” (Ezekiel 36:26-27, NCV).
The Canine Conundrum
Molly’s antics often leave me bewildered. Her penchant for rummaging through trash, licking dirty dishes, and stealing bones from the neighbor’s dog is, to say the least, embarrassing. But I’ve come to realize that her misbehavior isn’t a reflection of her personality – it’s simply her nature as a dog. And it’s this very nature that I wish to transform.
A Revolutionary Idea
Imagine if I could somehow infuse Molly with a kernel of human character. As it grew, wouldn’t she begin to change from the inside out? Her canine nature would gradually give way to a more refined essence, and she’d develop a distaste for her former habits. In time, she’d become less like Molly and more like me, sharing my values and principles.
A Divine Blueprint
This audacious idea isn’t mine alone; it’s a blueprint laid out by God himself. Just as I desire to transform Molly’s nature, God desires to transform ours. He doesn’t simply modify our behavior; he gives us a new heart, a new spirit. As the apostle Paul wrote, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).
A Life-Changing Reality
The implications are staggering. Sin may still lurk in the shadows, but it no longer holds sway over our lives. Temptation may still whisper in our ears, but it can no longer master us. This is the hope that God offers – a hope that’s not dependent on our own strength, but on the budding power within us.
Trusting the Transformation
So I ask you: How are you seeing God work in your life to change your nature? Are you trusting in his promise to transform you from the inside out? Remember, it’s not up to you; it’s up to the One who has begun a good work in you. Trust him, and he’ll carry it on to completion.
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