Oh how we ignore our need to change

By William F. Holland Jr.

DD., C.ED.D.

Transformation is a word used to explain what happens when someone is saved. It’s the theme of the Christian faith, but what about the daily progression of our relationship with God? Many today think the idea of changing into the image of Jesus no longer applies to them because they go to church and listen to Christian songs on the radio. This is good, but our relationship with God is not contained within a couple of hours per week.

Do we only think about Jesus when we take communion? Are we convinced that however we act is alright with God because we have accepted Him? What does this mean to me? Did I accept that He is real, or that my responsibility is to allow Him to control me as the Lord of my life?

Much like the frog who comfortably sits in the pot that eventually comes to a boil, it’s disturbing how many within our religious culture are suffering from spiritual starvation. Today the Bible is being dissected by scholars, but the difficult commands are being ignored by the average Christian. Some Bible teachers are hesitant to speak the hard truths of self-discipline and moral purity, while church members applaud when feel-good devotions are filled with blessings and happiness.

One of the principles of church growth today is to keep the people happy. Pastors are like coaches, they must keep pleasing their fans or they will be replaced. However, from God’s perspective, His uncomfortable, and sacrificial demands are the most important.

The time has come for a revival that strengthens homes, families, and churches. I’m not just talking about an evangelist coming to church with a fiery sermon. This is good and people enjoy it, but often in a couple of weeks the excitement fades and most return back to their lukewarmness. True revival is a personal revelation that quickens the mind and heart with a deep sorrow and brokenness that we have offended God with our lethargic carnal attitudes.

If there is not a deep grieving and repentance for the way we are living, and a sacred vow to God to never fall into this state of coldness again, then a rededication has not happened. The Kingdom of God is not going to be advanced by our churches becoming filled with people but by people in our churches becoming filled with God.

The term revival must be understood as not something new, but it’s a way of thinking and acting that is being restored. There is no such thing as rekindling a fire that was never started. Revival is rarely mentioned in the seeker-friendly movement because it would reveal there must be a change in the way we think and live, not to mention scaring some of the new converts away.

The concept of becoming aware of God’s presence is one of the most powerful realities within the Christian faith because it has everything to do with personal transformation. Surrendering our will to King Jesus is how we serve and obey Him. I’ve been teaching this revelation for years but rarely does anyone want to discuss it. Why not? Is it a case of not being able to comprehend it, or is it just too painful for our flesh? Probably both. As a weekly faith columnist, I’m experienced with delivering positive and inspiring messages, but God’s sword of truth has a double edge. Let us not ignore the balance and supernatural power of the full gospel that is described in Hebrews 4:12.

The constant awareness of God is similar to the idea of starting a strict diet. Those becoming serious about losing weight realize very quickly this is not for the faint of heart and it will demand total concentration and painful sacrifice. The idea is to watch every bite that we eat, but how much more of a life-changing experience is deciding to draw near to God?

In the same way that we become aware of carbohydrates and count calories, followers of Jesus are to develop a reverential sensitivity about what God is saying to turn away from and what He demands we do. If we do not care about what we eat and become obese it will be obvious to everyone. The same is true if we do not care about being a remnant warrior in God’s army and allow intentional sin to control us. This will not only be evident to God but also to everyone around us.

Dr. Holland is an ordained minister, chaplain, and Christian author. Read more about the Christian life at billyhollandministries.com.