Mindset Change
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
This verse speaks to the transformative power of Christ in the lives of believers.
And it is also the theme verse for the Men's Retreat we are having today and tomorrow. So pray that God will transform our mindset so that we can grow to be spiritual men who will go first for the Kingdom of God!
As Christians, we are called to put our faith in Jesus Christ and to allow Him to change us from the inside out. This change is not just superficial but a deep and profound transformation that affects every aspect of our lives.
When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are no longer defined by our past mistakes, failures, or even our successes. Instead, we are defined by our relationship with Him and our new identity as children of God.
This new identity brings a sense of purpose and direction that was not there before.
We are no longer aimlessly wandering through life, trying to find meaning and fulfillment in all the wrong places. Instead, we have a clear sense of our calling and mission as Christ followers.
But this transformation is not just for our own benefit. As new creations in Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of His love and grace to the world around us. We are to reflect His character in all we do and share the message of salvation with those who do not yet know Him.
Nick Vujicic was born in Australia in 1982 with a rare disorder called tetra-amelia syndrome, which left him without arms and legs. Growing up, Nick faced many challenges and struggled with depression and thoughts of suicide.
However, at the age of 15, Nick read a Bible verse that changed his life forever. It was John 9:3, which states:
"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him."
- John 9:3
This verse inspired Nick to realize that his disability was not a punishment, but rather an opportunity for God to work through him and inspire others.
Nick became a motivational speaker and began sharing his story with audiences worldwide. He founded an organization called Life Without Limbs, which aims to inspire people to overcome their challenges and find hope in God. Nick has traveled to over 60 countries and spoken to millions of people, sharing his message of faith, hope, and love.
Nick's life is a testament to the transformative power of Christ that 2 Corinthians 5:17 speaks of. He has embraced his disability and turned it into a platform to inspire others and share the message of God's love. His story is a powerful example of how, when we put our faith in Christ, he can turn our weaknesses into strengths.
So let us embrace the transformative power of Christ in our lives and let it inspire us to live boldly for Him. Let us be a shining example of what it means to be a new creation in Christ, and let us share His love and grace with all those we encounter.
For in Him, the old has gone, and the new has come!
Pastor Sean