Craig Clouston

 

Transforming Lives

September 17

Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.

1Corinthians 11:1

“I wish Gary would just let God transform his life,” Bryce said to Heather. “If he would just surrender to Jesus things would be so much better.”

Heather chose her words carefully, “But is pointing out his mistakes and misery what God wants, or what you want?”

Bryce really wanted his friend to experience what he had found in Christ. “Well, somebodys gotta show him the error of his ways!” Bryce countered. “How else is he gonna figure it out?”

“You’re not Gary’s holy spirit, Hon,” Heather reminded him. “It’s not your job to point out what Gary should or shouldn’t do. It’s your job to live a transformed life so he sees that the change in you is genuine, and you are content in this new life. Just try to be a godly example for him to follow.”

“I know you’re right,” he admitted. “But it’s so hard watching him continue to do the things that used to cause strife in our lives.”

“He’ll get it quicker if you don’t push. Just keep living it out in front of him each day. If you remember,” she reminded, “it took you awhile to give up doing things your way.”

†

When we get saved there is a temptation to become sidewalk prophets, to point out everything our saved and unsaved friends do wrong. We might even believe we are doing them a favor. But, it is not our job to transform lives. Our job is to live a transformed life that points people in Jesus’ direction.

There was and is no greater witness to the transforming power of Jesus Christ than the hated ‘Saul’ championing the deity, dominion, and sovereignty of Jesus Christ.

And as Paul instructs, we are to follow Jesus and lead by example, not beat them over the head with our theology. One offends and separates, the other fosters curiosity. Living godly lives and answering questions is what Jesus instructs us to do. If we will simply follow His lead Jesus will do the transforming.

Prayer

“Guide me, Lord Jesus, to live a transformed life, allowing those around me to see a difference that is inviting and real. And help me to not give unsolicited advice. Amen.”