People love to see “before and afters” – vehicles, homes, bodies, clothing, animals - you name it. But the most exciting and lasting “before and afters” are the changed lives of people who have met Jesus and welcomed Him into their hearts…
“We used to be foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. BUT after the kindness and love of God our Savior toward mankind appeared… He saved us!” (Titus 3:2-5).
True restorations don’t just glitz up the outside. They rip things apart to get to the inside – they cut out the decay, mold, and rusted out parts, then they implant new parts, restoring, and strengthening. The outward glitz is last. And so it is with us. Jesus’ first appearing was to start within. He paid for our sins at the Cross to make it all possible. Then He calls us to open our hearts door in repentance and faith so the Spirit of God can move in to regenerate and rebuild in righteousness.
Jesus’ second appearing will bring the glitz – the new bodies, shining with new power and great glory, just like our Savior… “Who will change these lowly bodies, that they may be fashioned like His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able to subdue all things to Himself” (Philippians 3:21).
From Jesus’ first appearing, this world has never been the same. From the moment we receive Him, we are never the same. But wait till you see what will happen to this world at His return. We have His promise… “Behold, I make all things new.”
Enjoy your daily 'renewal' time in God's Word, for the best is yet to come!
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