Introducing... Transformed

There is a common perception both inside and outside the church that we are transformed by trying really hard to be good. This approach never works. Although trying is a part of the Christian faith—Paul spoke of striving and straining—if we don’t do our trying with a profound conviction that, “Without Me, you can do nothing,” it is all wood, hay and stubble. Progress in the faith only advances through the power of the Holy Spirit working through us.

We are not transformed by trying really hard so much as we are transformed by the renewing of our minds. Our minds are transformed by the daily intake and meditation of God’s Word. Nothing predicts spiritual growth like starting your day with your Bible on your lap.

This is not only my opinion, it is the opinion of smart people. Consider these two quotes, both based on solid research:

• Current research into the spiritual lives of seventy thousand Americans—of all ages, from nearly every corner of the nation—is proving something many Christians have doubted: There’s power in God’s Word. A majority of those we surveyed showed us that consistently engaging the Bible is the key to knowing God intimately, getting unstuck, and growing spiritually.
• Nothing has a greater impact on spiritual growth than reflection on Scripture. If churches could do only one thing to help people at all levels of spiritual maturity grow in their relationship with Christ, their choice is clear. They would inspire, encourage, and equip their people to read the Bible—specifically, to reflect on Scripture for meaning in their lives. The numbers say most churches are missing the mark—because only one out of five congregants reflects on Scripture every day.

Being a disciple comes down to this: starting your day with your Bible on your lap, being transformed by the renewing of your mind, and applying the Word through the power of the Holy Spirit in your life.

Making a disciple comes down to this: encouraging another to start their day with their Bible on their lap so that they can be transformed by the renewing of their mind and apply the Word through the power of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

I have just created a new tool that will…

• Help me to be consistent in daily Quiet Time. (Does anyone besides me need help in being consistent in daily Quiet Time?)
• Help me in encourage others to be consistent in daily Quiet Time.

Announcing Transformed

Transformed is a print book available on Amazon that consists of 365 nearly-blank pages. Each page has a date at the top. There is a place to record…

• What you read.
• What was the key verse of the day?
• What is your application?

Transformed can be used personally, in one-on-one discipleship, or in a group setting where everyone is encouraged to share their insights from each day’s Quiet Time.

Nothing predicts growth in Christ like the daily Quiet Time. It is my prayer that Transformed will encourage people in consistence in this important habit.