“That’s Just the Way I Am….”

"..Be transformed (changed) 

by the [entire] renewal of your mind 

[by its new ideals and its new attitude]..."

Romans 12:2 (AMP)

We are each created with unique personalities and traits - created for the purpose of bringing glory to God and pointing the way to Jesus. But the flesh in us can sometimes use those personality traits in ways that do not glorify God or point to Jesus, but instead inflict pain and pierce the hearts of those around us.

Let’s face it… the flesh in us can use any God-given characteristic to wound those around us… and we are all guilty! But that should be the “old me”.  Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:17, 

“Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) 

he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); 

the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. 

Behold, the fresh and new has come!” (AMP).

“That’s just the way I am” doesn't work anymore…we are new creatures in Him. And if we are in Him, we cannot use the old excuses, but must be transformed (Romans 12:2) changing the way we act, speak and behave. The Amplified Bible calls it being renewed by “new ideals” and a “new attitude”.

God created some of us to be bold in our thoughts and actions. They are the ones who are not afraid to be strong in their convictions or speak openly about their faith and love for Jesus. Others are quiet and want to serve, but desire to do so behind the scenes – not so “up front” if you will. They are tend to be the “hands and feet” of Jesus.

 Both are good…

             both are needed…

                         both are necessary.

However, let’s make sure our boldness doesn't overstep boundaries and our quietness doesn't make us unapproachable. In everything we say and do, 

“Love one another with brotherly affection 

[as members of one family], 

giving precedence and 

showing honor to one another. 

(Romans 12:10 AMP)

‘Lena