It could be like being a pumpkin that is carved into a jack-o-lantern.
God picks us out of the pumpkin patch (the world) and brings us in from the field. The Bible says that when He selects us out of the world, though we live in the world, we are then no longer “of the world”.
"As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world." John 15:19b
God washes all the "dirt" off the outside that has collected from being in the world all around all the other pumpkins. All the outside influences of our former life must be cleaned up.
God carefully removes all the yucky stuff called "sin" from the inside. He then changes us from the inside out by the power of His Word. That's why it is important to meet with other Christians in church and to learn God's Word and how He has saved us.
Our countenance is then changed to a new and smiling face by the power of His presence in our lives. We are very grateful, and it shows on our glowing faces!
For…God puts His light inside of us to shine for all the world to see.
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Do not be doing anything you would not want to be doing when Jesus comes.
Do not be saying anything you would not want to be saying when Jesus comes.
Do not be anywhere you would not want to be when Jesus comes.
Do not be thinking anything you would not want to be thinking when Jesus comes.
- Author Unknown
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This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10 NLT
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NLT
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If you liked this story and would like a copy of either of my books,
they are available on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle format:
If you have a story or testimony that you think might bless others,
I invite you to send it by email to me (Kenneth Kersey) at godsotherways@me.com.
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