Bible Verse
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2a NIV
Reflection
I just took my puppy to the groomer for the first time. He is a Yorkie, so I prepared myself that he would come home looking very different. Yorkies are born with a thick, black coat. As they get older, their Yorkie silver and gold hair grows in. I felt like I came home with a different dog! Handsome but so different.
A friend remarked on his transformation—if only we could all be transformed by Jesus so quickly. I wish we could, but He peels back the layers one at a time; otherwise, it would be too much for us.
I do see a similarity, though, to the transformation that happened at the groomer and the way Jesus transforms our hearts.
The groomer sheared off the tough baby coat and trimmed all the baby tangles around the pup’s face. What emerged is a beautiful young Yorkie with shiny, silky hair, ready to grow into the adult Yorkie he was created to be.
As we invite Jesus into old wounds, lies we believe, unforgiveness, fear, and anything else that ties us in knots, He brings healing by pulling out those weeds, clipping the briars, and untangling the vines that have hindered us from being who God created us to be.
And that is how He brings us into transformation—at our invitation, openness, and willingness. He must be so delighted when He sees us emerge and grow into who He has created us to be.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for healing our hearts and bringing transformation into our lives. Help us continue to walk in deeper transformation with You, so we can live as who You created us to be. We pray this in Your name, Jesus. Amen
Thought for the Day
Take some time to ask Jesus to bring healing and transformation into your heart. He knows where to start and how to lead you. It often helps to pray with a friend who can help you recognize the Lord’s truth as He shines it into your heart.
Adventures with God 