Metamorphosis

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind..."

- Romans 12:2a

To be conformed means to assume an outward expression that does not reflect what is really inside.  You could relate this word to a masquerade or a costume party.  Paul is urging his readers, who were already becoming conformed, to stop immediately.

To be transformed means to outwardly manifest our inner, redeemed natures, not only once but daily.  When a caterpillar is transformed into a butterfly it doesn't look like a caterpillar anymore.  It has been totally transformed.

By the mercies of God we have hope and redemption in Jesus Christ.  True salvation is an internal change that manifests itself through how we live our lives.  As Galatians 5 states, our life should be controlled by the Spirit and producing the fruit of the Spirit.  The Holy Spirit must change out thinking through the consistent study and meditation of Scripture.  The renewed mind is saturated with and controlled by the word of God.

Is life a costume party for you?  Is your outward appearance reflecting your inward change?  Are you being transformed by the renewal of your mind?  I encourage you to commit to the consistent study and mediation of Scripture and you will see transformation!

The Fruit of Joy

This Sunday we begin our evening service at Countryside Chapel.  We will be walking through the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5 and the armor from Ephesians 6.  Here are a few thoughts on joy, which I will be speaking about this Sunday.

“Though you have not seen him, you love him.  Though you do not now see him, you believe and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory,” - 1 Peter 1:8

Joy is not reserved only for the future
Often times we are seeking that "thing" which will help us have joy.  We live life using phrases like, "if only" or "when this, then..."  Joy is only in our future which is always just out of reach.  If we are not living with joy, remembering and rejoicing constantly in Jesus Christ we are lacking belief.  When we love God, when we truly believe and know the love of God in Christ Jesus the only response is inexpressible joy.

“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” - John 15:11

Joy comes in obedience
God is the potter and we are the clay.  We are the created and He is the Creator.  He has laid out His Word and instructed us how to follow.  When we are obedient our joy is full because we are doing what we were created for.  Lack of joy should be a red flag for us to take a look at our life and hold it to the mirror of Scripture.  Obedience to God leads to His fullness of joy which can't be found any other place.

Joy is an incredible gift of God.  Joy allows you to smile when your whole world is falling apart.  Joy is centered in the truth of the eternal God's love for us and trusting in Him to work everything out for our good and His glory.  My prayer is that your joy may be full!