“…You Are Loved And Chosen By God!”
In the life of a believer and the life of a believing community there are three marks of “true conversion.” Let us remind ourselves that conversion is “turning from” and “turning towards.” The three marks of conversion are:
- Turning from idols. 2. Turning to God in Christ Jesus. 3. Lastly, waiting for the return of Christ.
When conversion takes place the evidences are there for eyes to see and mouths to testify. Your works which is produced by faith will be evident. Your labour in the Lord would be prompted by love and hope in the Lord will inspire you to endure under any condition.
Conversion happens when the gospel comes both in words and with the power of the Holy Spirit. African wisdom says, “a good wine needs no bush.” Telltales of conversion is joy – even under suffering – because the Holy Spirit is now at work in you. A converted community becomes a model for all believers. Faith in Christ becomes known everywhere, such that others bear witness to the results.
Such was the example of the Thessalonian church. They became a testimony for all believers in Macedonia and Achaia. Paul confidently said of them, “For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you…” (I Th.1:2-10).
The gospel heals when it comes with power from the Holy Spirit. Faith in the gospel turns us from whatever distraction and turns us towards Christ. The words of Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one a foreigner converted by coming back to Jesus to give thanks (Lk.17:1-19).
In the same way Naaman, another foreigner was converted when he was healed of his leprosy. Naaman acknowledged, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel…” He vowed never to “again make burnt offerings and sacrifices to any other god but the Lord…” (II Kgs 5:1-19a).
My friend, there is exceeding joy in knowing the Lord. God’s dwelling is a lovely place. Even the sparrow has found a home there and “the sawllow a nest for herself, where she may have her young – a place near your alter…”
O yes; it is better “to be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked…”(Ps.84).
As you wait for the coming of the Lord, continue to remain in his presence in joyful thanksgiving. Let your work be a testimony that speaks for itself so that others may through your good works give glory to your father in heaven.
Sunday prayer: We thank you Lord for your children whose works are a testimony of their faith and hope in you. Amen!
Have a blessed Sunday! Peace be with you!