When they
observed the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated
and untrained men, they were amazed and knew that they had been with Jesus.—Acts 4:13
There is no mistaking a life
transformed by God! The disciples had been vain and fearful when Jesus enlisted
them. James and John sought to outmaneuver their fellow disciples in order to
gain the places of greatest honor next to Jesus (Mark 10:37).
Over and over the disciples' actions showed that they did not truly understand
who Jesus was (John 6:7–9;
Mark 6:49).
Even after three years with Jesus, Peter was afraid to confess Christ before a
young servant girl (Matt. 26:69–75).
Anyone who knew these men would realize they were not the kind of people on
which you build a worldwide kingdom. Yet something happened to them as they
were with Jesus. The Holy Spirit transformed them, giving them new boldness and
wisdom. Now they could perform miracles and preach fearlessly and persuasively
to multitudes. Even their enemies noticed in their changed lives the same power
they had witnessed in Jesus.
Sometimes we desperately want others
to believe that we have changed, that we are more godly, more devoted, more
Spirit-controlled. It is not necessary, however, for those who have been truly
transformed by Christ to convince others of the difference; the change will be
obvious.
Don't become too introspective,
always focusing on yourself and the small changes you see happening over time.
As you walk with Jesus daily, let the witness of the changes taking place in
you come from others and not from you. If you have to prove to someone that God
has really changed you, He has not. Those around you will surely notice when
your life has been transformed by your relationship with Jesus. God bless you.
Bible Deluxe.
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