The Bible tells us of many accounts of change: change of names, change of places, change of behaviour, etc… Yes, change is real and necessary once we accept Christ as our Lord and Saviour, because we are no longer from this world but from His Kingdom (John 15:19). Surely, many will start reading this meditation thinking it will tell them about their life in the world changing… That is the main problem we see in Christianity today: we want our life to prosper, while the Lord clearly said prosperity starts from within us (3 John 1:2). Besides, many believers try to change their lives or themselves by their own means. It is impossible: we are not in control of the change that occur in us through repentance and therefore we cannot adjust it either. My brother, my sister, it is crucial to understand that repentance is not a work we do to earn salvation. No one can repent and come to God unless God Himself pulls that person to Himself (John 6:44). Therefore, salvation, including repentance and faith, is a result of God drawing us to Himself through Jesus, opening our eyes through the Cross, and changing our hearts to become like Christ. Now, sometimes, because we have become Christians, we also want to drag our loved ones who are not. We cannot do it and we should not forget that just like them who are still lost, the Lord was patient with us and waited until we decided to accept Him: “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). If you have changed, if your behaviour has changed, it is not because you did something by your own strength except for having faith in Christ who now could operate the changes in you through His Spirit dwelling in you. Today, many people believe that turning away from their sin means they have truly repented… Well, it is part of it, but turning away from your sin does not mean you are saved or regenerated by the renewal of your mind (many pagans turn from their sin every day too), because repentance is a package that necessarily brings us to salvation, but most importantly it is about changing our mind about Jesus Christ and turning to God in faith for salvation (Acts 3:19). Stay blessed in Jesus’ name.
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