We have learned that reformation is the result of true revival, a vital and living connection with God that results in an unmistakable transformation in the life of the true Christian.
However, in order for reformation to occur in our lives so that the fruit of the Spirit is displayed, we need to surrender totally to God. We need to give ourselves totally to His Will and plan for our lives. He who resists will not be changed for the better. God will not impose change upon you unless you admit that you need things about you changed. It works the same as in the natural world; if you go to a psychologist, he can’t help you unless you first admit you have a problem and are willing to work with him to accept change in your life. (Rom 12:1-2)
The biggest hindrance to reformation in the life of professed Christians is hypocrisy which is satan pulling the wool over your eyes, deceiving you into thinking that you’re perfect and that other people are the problem. As long as you harbour this spirit and attitude in your life, you cannot be totally delivered and reformed. The Bible says that people will know you by your fruits. (Matt 7:16-21, James 3:11-18, Matt 7:1-5)
I often hear the debate about why it is that we find Christians in Church who are still held captive by the same behaviours and bad habits they had fifty years ago. The reason that this is the case is because each person needs to surrender totally to God in order for Him to work with us in the reformation process. We cannot surrender unless we’re willing to admit that we can do nothing apart from Christ. Only He can deliver us from our cultivated and inherited tendencies to evil. We must surrender our whole being to Him as the first work of every day. We must admit that we have problems that we need help with. For some this may just be undesirable character traits that you want refined. Others may have habits that consume their lives and for which they need to pursue professional advice, attend a support group or other intervention while also engaging in a regular prayer life. God may choose to deliver some immediately while others are reformed gradually for His glory. (Heb 11:6, John 15:1-9)
It is said that a sculptor is no artist. He just chips away at a piece of granite revealing the beauty already hidden within it. How amazing that God’s Spirit is often alluded to or described as water or oil in the Scriptures. Rocks exposed to water for a long period of time always experience the effects of erosion where the sharp, angular edges are smoothed away and they become beautiful smooth pebbles, pebbles that a shepherd boy can use to slay giants with when God is with him. (1Sam 17:40). Oil causes objects to shine or a candle to burn, just as God intends us to shine for Him. (Matt 5:14-16)
The heavens declare the handiwork of God and all nature obeys His voice. Why do we, the pinnacle of His creation, resist Him? I invite you to write down all the things about you that you want God to change. Then give them to God daily and ask Him to change you as you submit to His Will. (Ps 51:9-13)
