Since we have lived in houses be it a tent, a wooden or brick house, an igloo, a thatched cottage or a mansion, there has been an ongoing need for home improvements. Especially if there’s a woman in residence! If we want it to last, be in good shape and look attractive—we have to work at it
I think most people will admit to themselves, if to no one else, there are things about themselves they’d like to change. (The person who thinks they have nothing to change–is the one in most need of change!) In case you haven’t noticed, ever since the fall in the Garden of Eden, we are all imperfect humans.
Everyone is born a caterpillar. God through His great love, and sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ on the cross, made the way through faith that we can become a butterfly in Him.It doesn’t get any more wonderful than this! Then with His help our new home improvement begins. First on the improvement list is the ongoing project of transforming into His image, and not being conformed to the world.Rom 12:1-12
The word transform (which comes from the word metamorphosis) means to change from one form to another. Such as when a tadpole become a frog and a caterpillar turns to a butterfly.
The second meaning of the word – complete transformation of character, purpose or circumstances is the one I’ll be talking about here.
We have people who would love to see us change! Some for our good –some for their own good. But, not so with God. He only wants us to change for our good—for our better life. As we grow and change we become more like Him so Jesus can shine through us.
Yes, He is in control of everything. However, He has given us a free will. We have to be willing. He won’t force us to change. Part of the race is growing and changing.
The bible tells about people who weren’t willing to change and paid a price. May we learn from their bad example.Saul in OT was so jealous of God’s call on David, he tried to kill him on several occasion. God gave Saul chances and time to change. He didn’t. Therefore, because He wasn’t willing, Saul lost his kingdom, his family and his life.1 Sam
Cain in early pages of bible was jealous because his brother Abel’s sacrifice was accepted by God and his wasn’t ( because he offered the wrong one). He got angry. God told Cain that he had to master his anger and jealousy. He didn’t listen. He didn’t change the way God told him, and he killed his brother. He therefore paid a life changing price. (Gen 4)
We are told in NT that we are God’s fellow workers and His building. We are all building and doing home improvements–either for ourselves or the kingdom. God says we all have to take heed how we build. We will receive a reward here and now, and in eternity for doing it the better way. (1Cor 3:9-17)
Paul tell us…I appeal to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of all the mercies of God, to make a decisive, dedication of your bodies (presenting all your members and faculties as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this word (this age) (fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs) but be transformed (changed) by the (entire) renewal of your mind (by its new ideals and its new attitude), so the you may prove (for yourselves) what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect (in His sight for you). Rom 12:1 & 2 Amplified
With our divine home improvement project, He comes alongside. He enable us to start, stay with it, and to finish. Remember that’s why Jesus said it is better for us that He goes away – because He would send us the Helper. Our Helper won’t be like one of the home improvement contractors horror story’s we’ve all heard. The contractor gives promise on top of promise –takes a big down payment, and shows up whenever, if ever. Oh, but not so with, God. From beginning to finish, He’s with us every step of the way. He promises are as steadfast and unmovable as His Name and His word—and we don’t have to be notarized..
I challenge you to come and sit at His feet. Give everything to Him. Begin with yourself. Cast your cares upon Him. Ask what things you and Him can begin to work on. If you really want to know—He’ll answer. There are many different ways He talks to His people. Through the word, by a knowing in your spirit, through something you read or hear, or through someone else. Either way, He’ll make sure you find out. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye. Psalm 32:8 (NKJV)
Happy home improving!!