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About a year ago, my husband and I got matching tattoos on our wrists. It’s the word charis in Greek. It’s pronounced “CAR-ees” and looks like this: χαρις. It means grace. Because of circumstances in our lives over the past decade or so, I’ve come to understand this word used in the Bible to explain what Jesus did for us in a deeper, richer, fuller way. This word—found in Ephesians 2:8 (“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God”)—had transformative power in my life.
A Real-life Story
My oldest son had walked away from his faith and was participating in behavior far removed from how we raised him. I had a choice: I could cut him out of my life in ungracious legalism, or I could respond with grace and love him—and the grandson we had coming—with my whole being, and let God work on his heart.
What transformed my thinking about grace was the understanding that I don’t have the power to change myself—outside of God’s redemptive work. And I never have the power to change anyone else. Just as I am on a spiritual journey of transformation, so is everyone else around me. And no two people are in the exact same place.
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” This captures the essence of the transformation we yearn for and the pathway to its realization.
Understanding the Transformative Power of the Word
The Bible stands as a living testament, brimming with stories, teachings, and principles that mean as much today as they did when they were experienced and written about. It offers a lens through which we can reevaluate our perspective. The story of Saul’s radical transformation into Paul (Acts 9:1-19) underscores the profound impact of divine intervention and the redemptive power of faith. People often use Paul as an example of transformation because of how radical the change in his life was. But the truth is, we can be transformed by giving God freedom to renew our mind in many small ways throughout the course of our life.
The Role of Faith in Transformation
Faith serves as the keystone in unlocking the potent force of biblical insights. It bridges the gap between passive knowledge and active life change. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” It’s easy to trust what you can see and touch. Jesus said this to Thomas after Thomas touched the crucifixion wounds on Jesus: “Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’”
Faith can act as a catalyst for personal evolution, guiding you along a path paved with challenges yet filled with God’s promise on wisdom and insight that has transformative power.
Practical Applications of Biblical Wisdom
Integrating the wisdom of the Bible into our daily routines can cultivate a fertile environment for transformation. Practices such as meditating on Scripture, engaging in heartfelt prayer, and seeking fellowship within a community of believers can significantly impact your spiritual wellbeing. These disciplines allow us to immerse ourselves in God’s truth, to become more like Jesus. There’s nothing more transformative than that!
Here are some areas where you can apply biblical wisdom and see the transformative power of God’s Word:
1. Decision Making: The Bible offers timeless wisdom on how to make wise decisions and discern the will of God. By following biblical principles, individuals can make practical and sound decisions that align with their values and beliefs.
2. Relationships: Biblical wisdom provides guidance on how to build healthy relationships with others. This includes advice on communication, forgiveness, love, and conflict resolution. Applying these principles can lead to stronger and more fulfilling relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.
3. Finances: The Bible contains numerous teachings on managing money wisely, such as avoiding debt, living within one’s means, and being generous toward others. Following these principles can lead to financial stability and security in the long run.
Overcoming Challenges with Biblical Insights
Psalm 46:1-3 reminds us of God’s presence as a refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Life contains trials. That’s just a fact. So how can the transformative power of the Bible help during these hard times?
Overcoming Temptation: 1 Corinthians 10:13
The Bible provides guidance on resisting temptation and staying strong in the face of challenges. By following Jesus’ example when He was tempted in the wilderness and seeking God’s help, we can overcome our desires and resist temptation.
Extending Forgiveness: Matthew 18:21-22
Holding onto grudges and bitterness can be a major challenge for many people. However, there is transformative power in following the teachings of Jesus on forgiveness. Through studying the Bible, we can learn how to forgive others and ourselves, overcoming this challenge.
Dealing with Anxiety: Philippians 4:6
Anxiety and worry run rampant in our world. The Bible offers reassurance and guidance on how to trust in God’s plan and find peace in difficult times. By turning to biblical insight, we can overcome our anxious thoughts and find strength in God’s promises.
Maintaining Faith During Trials: Psalm 42:5
Life is full of trials and challenges that can test our faith. However, the Bible reminds us that even during difficulties, we can have hope through God’s love and grace. Biblical insight can help us stay faithful during tough times, knowing that God’s transformative power will work for our good and His glory.
The Impact of Transformation on Communities
Personal transformation has a ripple effect. Because of what I’ve learned through the years, I’ve shared with others experiencing similar situations. The tattoo on my wrist serves as a constant reminder of how I experienced the transformative power of God’s Word in my life. It’s not just a word; it’s a mindset change. I literally look at people differently now, seeing them in the light of God’s grace.
I’m not perfect, of course. I still get annoyed when people don’t act the way I want them to act. But then I look at my wrist. Charis. God’s amazing grace. It makes me different.
Listen now to a short segment of an Abide meditation that I wrote based on John 8:12. Let God speak to your heart about how you can always look to Him for safety and guidance, like a lighthouse.
The great revivals of the past started with just a few people experiencing the transformative power of God’s Word. They became catalysts for collective action, and it changed their society. Want that to happen in your world today? Let it begin with you.
Take a step toward unlocking the transformative power of biblical insights by downloading the Abide app. Our more than 1500 guided meditations all exist to help you draw closer to God and experience His transformative power. Download the app and start a premium subscription. This will unlock our entire library of content. Here’s 25% off to get you started.
Stephanie Reeves is the senior editor of Abide. She and her husband live in Orlando, Fla, as do their three adult children and one adorable grandson.
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