My housemates and I are excited about renovations to the outside of our house. It has been more than a fresh coat of paint, since the renovators have chopped down rotting trees, replaced wooden panels and power-washed the walls to remove dead vines. Now, new paint is being coated on, helping our house look more alive.
It reminded me of how, when we let God work in our lives, He is able to strip away all of the mess within us and give us a new spirit. He gives us the Holy Spirit, when we follow Christ, and we are able to have a new life with Him. I believe we need Him to renovate our lives, on the inside and the outside.
"I say then, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh" (Galatians 5:16, HCSB). Anthony Hoekema helped me understand this verse more in his book, Created in God's Image. He explained that this verse is a promise, rather than a threat (page 109). God helps us live today. This does not mean that we will be perfect today, but it has helped me see that He is the one who gives us strength and hope to follow Him.
Will we let Him renovate our lives today? Will we help others see how He can change us, from the inside out?
Music video, Hillsong United: "From the Inside Out" - YouTube
