How does spiritual transformation take place? The prophecy in Ezekiel 36 delivers good news: It does not come from you. God makes those changes. Relax—the pressure is off of you.
God does not call us to come to Him changed. Instead, He calls us to come to Him as we are and allow Him to make the necessary changes in our lives.
Note how often “I”—meaning God—begins sentences in Ezekiel 36. God puts the action on Himself.
God does the purifying. God provides the new heart. God places the Spirit within us. God does not expect us to do those things, but often we place those expectations on ourselves.
After God tells Israel what He will do, He then tells them what they will do—return to live in the land He had already blessed them with and be His people (Ezekiel 36:28).
Our responsibility is to simply decide to return to the relationship with Him that He designed for us to enjoy. Within that relationship, changes occur. And within that relationship, the presence of the Holy Spirit motivates us to obey God’s commands.
It’s that simple. So relax!
Thought for Today: Make your relationship with God your top priority and allow Him to direct your life.
Devotional brought to you by God's Word For Today.
God's Word For Today is available from Gospel Publishing House.
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2 comments:
I have heard many people say that the "the power to change is within you".
Could I be bold enough and honest enough to correct that statement?
The power to change only comes from the Holy Spirit that indwells each born again believer in Jesus Christ. (John 3:3)
I think I'm going to 'Relax' and enjoy Him today as He changes me.
When I read the devotional, it was an eye opener and a lot of pressure was taken off of me. Instead of trying to change I can enjoy and embrace my time with HIM! That is the secret of Life.
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