We Can Activate Life-changing Power
Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”
Paul’s Road to Change
The book of Romans was written by Paul; formerly known as Saul. His conversion, from devout Jewish teachings to a Christ-follower, will forever pass from generation to generation as one of the most significant life-changing stories ever told. The book of Acts, chapter 22, tells of a day when Jesus got this man’s attention. Saul was on the road to Damascus, at the height of his murderous agenda against the Christ-followers. One of his cruelest acts was the stoning of Stephen. Saul held the man’s garments and ordered him put to death. Only after meeting the Lord, did he see his deeds as heinous. Later, in another biblical passage, he openly calls himself the “chief sinner.”
A Personal Encounter
One personal encounter with Jesus changed everything. When the scales fell from his eyes, he was a new man. God didn’t plan to put Saul to death. Instead, he gave him a new name and job description. He was now Paul, the Christ-following evangelist, sent to preach the Gospel to the gentiles. Paul remains one of the most outspoken believers of all time. His testimony lives on; touching multitudes.
My Crisis Point
I came to the Lord during a crisis point in my life. Perhaps you did, too. People aren’t naturally born into a personal relationship with the Lord. As we gather understanding, it is a choice we make. Some are convinced through childhood teachings, but most come to a crossroads in life, as Paul did, where they turn toward faith or walk away from God. When circumstances are beyond our control, i.e. death of a loved one, sickness, a family break up, loss of employment, prison, or a myriad of things, God becomes our only hope. When life’s wall is too high to climb over, we find ourselves ready to pray and seek the Lord.
A Perspective Shift Happens When We Activate Life-changing Power
A perspective shift happens when we encounter the Lord and wisely choose to know Him as Paul did. Don’t be surprised that God is more interested in our eternal destination than our happiness. He will fight for our souls. For Paul, he was struck blind. For me it was the struggles of a difficult marriage. God knows what it will take to get our attention. The Gospel of love sets out to interrupt our days in personal, life-changing ways. It’s then that our true life’s purpose begins to make sense.
Don’t Fight Difficult Times
Difficult times just might be God allowing something in our lives that will ultimately draw us to activate the life-changing power of the Gospel. Maybe the loss of that job holds more purpose than originally thought. I’ve discovered it’s best not to fight against difficult times. Instead, draw near to the Lord. Because of God’s great love, these less than ideal days are common to man. Realize God just might be trying to get your attention to bring about a needed lifestyle change.
The Results are Always Profitable
The transformative power of the gospel is meant for our good. Within each of us lies raw gold and silver ready for the Refiner’s fire. The process might not be downright comfortable, but the results are ALWAYS profitable. After the fire we are thankful and ready to be used as God sees fit. Because I met the Lord and activated life-changing power, I understood God wanted me to write family helps materials. You can learn more at Rebuilding Families.
