Wednesday, May 17, 2000

VERSE:

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

-- 2 Corinthians 5:17

http://bible.gospelcom.net/bible?2+Corinthians+5:17

THOUGHT:

Being changed is something we hope for, but for all practical purposes resist. Saul is one of the greatest examples in the Bible of being changed by the grace of God.

Hear the Good News, when you encounter Christ in your life, you can't help but be changed. But it gets even better. All that "old baggage" you were carrying, the checkered past, the mistakes, and regrets, they are replaced by "new baggage" filled with concern for others, peace, joy and love.

Look at Paul, the guy was killing Christians, getting rid of all he could, because the resurrection of Jesus was an ugly rumor. What happened was totally unexpected. As Jesus appeared to him, he probably would have expected,, "just you wait buddy, you'll get yours!" but instead he got, I want you on My side." Of all the people to be forgiven, Paul was. Of all the people to be in ministry for Jesus, Paul was. Of all the people to have his heart changed, Paul's was. For that matter, of all the people to be changed by God, used by God and forgiven by God, I have. You have. Embrace the New, because it is becoming for us all. Be different, be God's changed and chosen people!

PRAYER:

God, you amaze me with Your love, Your compassion and Your very nature. You have come into our lives and into our hearts, not because of who we are, but because of who You are. Change me. Dress me, mold me, use me. I yield all that I am and all I have to You and Yours. Thank You for Your graciousness. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.