The Power of God to Change Your Life- Chapter 1

Change is a constant aspiration in our lives. We often seek to become more confident, less anxious, or simply better versions of ourselves. We attend seminars, read self-help books, and join health clubs, all in pursuit of that elusive transformation. Yet, we find ourselves asking, "Why can't I change?"

In my years as a pastor, I've encountered countless individuals wrestling with this question. They yearn for change but feel powerless or uncertain about how to achieve it. The quest for self-discipline can be daunting, leaving us searching for that magical solution, that instant zap to transform our lives.

We've all been there, signing up for a diet that lasts an afternoon or committing to a health club only to find our enthusiasm wane after a few weeks. We read self-help books that provide valuable advice but lack the ability to grant us the power to implement change. They instruct us to "get rid of bad habits" or "be positive, not negative," leaving us wondering how, and where, we can acquire the power to truly change.

The good news is that Christianity offers a source of power that can facilitate transformation. It is a power rooted in the resurrection of Jesus Christ—an event so powerful that it marks the division of time itself, distinguishing between A.D. and B.C.

The New Testament emphasizes the concept of power, mentioning it 57 times. It describes the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the most significant and powerful event in human history. This resurrection power is not merely a historical fact but a living force that can change our lives today.

The Apostle Paul, a key figure in early Christianity, understood the transformative potential of this resurrection power. In his letter to the Philippians, he expressed his desire: "I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection" (Philippians 3:10). In another letter to the Ephesians, he elaborated on this incredible power available to believers, likening it to dynamite: "I pray that you will begin to understand how incredibly great His power is to help those who believe Him. It is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead" (Ephesians 1:19-20 TLB).

The Greek word used for power in these passages is "dunamis," which is the root of our word "dynamite." Paul essentially tells us that God wants to infuse our lives with dynamite-like power, a force capable of bringing about profound change. This power is not limited to historical accounts but is available to us right now, to transform our weaknesses into strengths.

Resurrection power has three significant dimensions:

1. Power to Cancel Your Past:
The resurrection of Jesus Christ offers the power to cancel our past mistakes and sins. In Christian theology, the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ provide forgiveness and redemption. Through faith, we can experience a profound change by letting go of the burdens of guilt and shame.

2. Power to Conquer Your Problems:
Life is rife with challenges and problems, both big and small. Resurrection power equips us with the strength to overcome adversity, providing hope and perseverance even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

3. Power to Change Your Personality:
We all have aspects of our personality and character that we'd like to improve. Resurrection power can transform our inner selves, helping us grow in love, patience, kindness, and other virtues. It enables us to become the best versions of ourselves.

In conclusion, the transformative power of resurrection is not a distant historical event but a living force that can change our lives. It empowers us to cancel our past, conquer our problems, and change our personalities. Through faith and the embrace of this divine power, we can finally answer the question, "Why can't I change?" with the confidence that change is not only possible but attainable through the mighty resurrection power of Jesus Christ.