My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. – Galatians 2:20 NLT
Jaws were dropping as people witnessed the miraculous transformation of the Christian-hunting man named Saul. When he began to proclaim the name of Jesus in the synagogues, saying: “He is the Son of God,” it was clear he was not the same person.
Saul’s wisdom was impressive. It always had been. But what really made an impact on the people who heard him preach was his changed life. When Saul told people of the saving power of Jesus Christ, he could say, “Look at me!”
Later, he would have a similar message for his protégé, Timothy: “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” – and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of His great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in Him and receive eternal life. (1 Timothy 1:15-16 NLT)
I can relate! I am not the same person I was before I surrendered my life to Jesus. My transformation may not have been as instant as Saul’s, but it has been powerful. When I reflect on my old self, the way I once lived and the strongholds* that once held me captive, I am in awe of what the Holy Spirit has done in my life.
As you allow the sanctifying work of Jesus to change you from the inside out, people will notice. And when people see what God has done in your life, they can believe for what He will do in theirs.
Show and share your transformation story!
*I am so passionate about freedom from strongholds that I wrote a 30-day devotional about it! If you are stuck in a cycle of regret, repent, and repeat, “Delivered! Destroying Strongholds & Walking in Freedom” will show you what a journey to freedom looks like. (Click HERE to find out more and check out a free 3-day preview.)
