A Change That Only Jesus Can Make

Galatians 1:23-24

23They only heard the report: "The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy." 24And they praised God because of me.

The apostle Paul was writing for the purpose of addressing those who were attempting to bind the Gentiles with Jewish traditions as noted in the Zondervan NIV Study Bible. When Paul's authority was questioned, he gave his testimony. Many of you know that Paul's birth name was Saul. His background was indeed that of one well versed in Jewish teaching and had a hand in the stoning and death of Stephen.  After the stoning of Stephen, Saul went on a war path and received approval from the Sanhedrin to persecute those who followed "The Way" also known as Jesus Christ. Yes, the apostle that is known for writing a good portion of The New Testament was previously a murderer and actually sought the annihilation of followers of Christ. But God! Jesus met Saul on the road to Damascus. It was on this road that Jesus made a change in Saul. Jesus changed Saul's name to Paul to reflect the NEW life he received in Christ.

When you see someone who is plagued with evil in their heart and you have sought to show them the way, understand that you have planted a seed but Jesus is the only one that can do heart surgery. Only Jesus can make the kind of change in a person who was once plagued with violence to one as gentle as a dove who seeks to help others. True change originates in the inside first and then on the outside. Anyone can look "brand new" or sporty. Saul was not seeking change. Jesus met him on the road thereby commanding the change. Saul still had a choice. He could have said no but the power of the Holy One was so overwhelming that it was "an offer he couldn't refuse."  Only Jesus can do a work in someone who is bent on creating hell in the lives of others. Only Jesus can truly change someone's heart to the point they are no longer who they used to be. You can't do it and continuously trying is only futile. You did what you were supposed to do. Let Jesus do the rest. When Jesus does it, it will be evident and only God will be able to get the glory.


P.S. Remember to check out my man V of the Artist to Artist Show on Mondays on www.Qliveone.com and listen for the Get Your JOY In The Morning segment!