The transformation process requires time, sacrifice and hard work. But Papa, the Master Gardener promises He can transform you into the image of His beloved Son, Jesus.
How does the Lord do this?
Suffering.
Pain.
Anguish.
Distress.
Affliction.
A message many do not want to hear! But if you are to fulfill your Kingdom destiny. Anything that can cause you to stumble and fail has to be pruned— removed.
The pruning— transformation process is uncomfortable and inconvenient because it…
Threatens yours and others perception of your identity.
Disrupts routines and the status quo.
Replaces the familiar with the unfamiliar.
Forces the honest evaluation of your strengths and weaknesses.
But many Christians resist pruning. Instead, focusing on image rather than authenticity. An existence that slowly and methodically destroys moral, ethical and spiritual paradigms.
Where was the American Christian Church during America’s moral decline? For the most part She was silent. Fundamentally ineffective in equipping Christians to be a positive influence on American culture.
It is estimated that half of those who profess to be Christian are Christian in name only. Their behavior not differing from that of agnostics or atheists. In fact, the American public views lawyers, real estate agents and entertainers as more trustworthy than your average Christian.
Instead of living lives affirming positive and moral values as defined by God’s truth. Many Christians have chosen to place their confidence in their…
Education.
Physical appearance.
Material possessions.
Occupation.
Talents.
Skills.
Accomplishments.
Other people’s opinions.
Thankfully, it is not all gloom and doom for the Church in America. There are a growing number of Christians who acknowledge Jesus as the Lord of their lives. Understanding God expects them to live righteously so He is glorified.
Disciples of Christ whose compass is eternity.
Who measure success by the number of their heartbeats beating in unison with God’s heart.
Who understand God does not entrust eternal matters to spiritually immature individuals. Because the eternal consequences are too important.
Who allow the Lord to reveal and remove anything that diminishes their Christ-likeness. So their hearts are soft as silk but strong as steel.
For those seeking a new beginning— to be transformed into the image of Christ. The Beatitudes are foundational.
Blessed are the spiritually poor. The kingdom of heaven is theirs.
Blessed are those who mourn. They will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek and gentle. They will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. They will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful. They will be shown mercy.
Blessed are those who are pure in heart. They will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers. They will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness. The kingdom of heaven is theirs. Matthew 5:3-10
Spiritual transformation enables disciples of Christ to finish in the winner’s circle. Confidently proclaiming, “I have fought the good, worthy, honorable and noble fight. I have finished the race. I have kept, firmly held the faith.
As to what remains henceforth. There is laid up for me the victor’s crown of righteousness for being right with God and doing right. Which the Lord— the righteous Judge will award to me and recompense me on that great day. And not to me only but also to all those who have loved and yearned for and welcomed His appearing, His return.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8
Individuals who can proclaim to the heavens. “I have been crucified with Christ. In Him I have shared His crucifixion. It is no longer I who live, but Christ the Messiah lives in me.
The life I now live in the body I live by faith in— by adherence to and reliance on and complete trust in the Son of God. Who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20
GO DEEPER
In a culture where conformity rather than individuality is encouraged and honored. Transformation is unnecessary and actually discouraged.
But those seeking spiritual transformation must answer this question.
Will I throw the fear of man and pride overboard or go down with the other rats on the ship?
What prevents you from becoming more like Christ? The fear of man, pride or both?
Why?
(Excerpt from I AM The Master Gardener)
I AM The Master Gardener e-book
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