Transformation

20210711 HPC Mike Andrews

Covid has forced many changes in my way of life and relationships I have. There are other pandemics than Covid:

Isolation mental health issues

Violent rage and eruption of tension

Racism and divisive biases

What would it mean to go back to “normal”? What is God’s definition of “normal”

Series on 1Cor and theme of Transformation

The Corinthians were not looking for change but were seeking wisdom, peace, affluence, intellectual ‘fatness’

CS Lewis “Mere Christianity” it would be very difficult for a bird to fly while still in the egg. That cardinal change is required to open a new world for the bird.

God doesn’t want us to return to a comfortable normal. He is the God of all things new

1Cor 15:12-20.

2Cor5:17 new creation

Rom 6:4 raised from death to new life

Rom 8:10-11 Spirit gives new life NOW

The transformation God is working in me is most evident in how I love others and put them first in my life. An other-centered life is how Jesus lived.

1Cor 15:51-58 God is describing a future state that is a direct outcome of the life change v57 victory!!

I should not come through the pandemic(s) returning to the old normal. I should use the circumstance to see where God intended to build character rather than comfort. God’s intent in my life, to build faith and trust, does not happen through comfortable times. Look for His intent in allowing trials. Ask for Spirit help to see the plan and desired outcome.

God, help me to see the ways You want to make new things happen in my life.