Is it really true that Jesus Christ can transform who we are?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: Is it really true that Jesus Christ can transform who we are? – N.H.
A: Think of all the advancements in medicine, communications, and technology the human race has made. We should be grateful that God has given us the ability to make this kind of progress. But think of the tragic fact that these same centuries have seen the most devastating wars in human history.
In spite of our accomplishments, we humans are still a painful mixture of good and bad, love and hate, joy and sorrow. We have the ability to reach the moon, but we can also destroy millions with the touch of a button. Thankfully, we don’t have to be who we have been in the past. The Lord saves us and repurposes versions of our old selves, making us brand-new individuals with new hearts. God sees our righteousness because of what His Son did on the cross for those who turn to Him in faith, believing and following in His steps.
That’s why we need to open our hearts continually to Christ and allow Him to take away our sin and self-centeredness. Only He can make us new; only He can change our hearts and make us more like Himself. We don’t have to remain the same people we’ve always been. The Bible says, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2, NKJV).
We can open our hearts and minds to Christ and know the transformation that takes place because of His salvation. “Put off, concerning your former conduct … and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and … put on the new [person] which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22–24, NKJV).
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2024 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2024 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
