Ponder This: How can we allow God's kindness to transform our hearts and minds?
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Scriptures To Consider: "He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins." -Ephesians 1:7
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Reflections From The PrayerBowl Team: The biblical meaning of 'transformed' is a profound change to one's character, a metamorphosis from within. As our understanding and knowledge of God's immeasurable kindness grows, then we begin to be transformed. Through spending time in God's Word, engaging in teachings about His beautiful kindness and constant provision, and witnessing others shine God's light in this world, I changed. It is a change that originates from within and then spills out. As I realize and accept how personally loved and cherished I am by my Creator, my heart and mind are transformed; it is a gift to feel so secure. This gift fills me to the brim, allowing me to overflow with God's kindness to others. Also, as I accept help and support from others(the hands and feet of Jesus) in times of need, I am humbled and want to pay it forward, sprinkling seeds of kindness as well.
For me, it's best if I read/listen, reflect, and then do my best to respond to God's word. Respond the way I believe God would want me to and put confidence in Him rather than myself. His words have the power to shape and change our hearts and minds. I pray that the Spirit-empowered kindness would help me change my mind and begin living His way.
God showed us the greatest act of kindness through the cross when he sacrificed His only Son for us. His forgiveness is freely given to us, not because we earned it but because of his love and grace. Like the story in the Bible- Jesus and the Women at the Well (John 4:1-26). When we understand and feel His gift, it softens our hearts and renews our minds which helps us to extend that same kindness to others.
