For many people, coming to know and accept Christ is a life-changing event. For example, immediately after he met and talked with Jesus, Zacchaeus’ entire life was turned around. 1 In a matter of days, Saul went from “threatening with every breath and eager to destroy every Christian” 2 to preaching the gospel as the apostle Paul. More recently, many people have been known to be freed from addictions or other bad habits on the spot.
Although few converts experience such an earth-shattering change, we know that God wants believers to grow. As Billy Graham said, “Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion—it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ.” And here’s Paul: “Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted … Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature … truly righteous and holy.” 3
Of course, no one is perfect; that is a fact of life. Fortunately, however, we have a God who is both omniscient—He knows our future and can prepare us for the changes we’ll be faced with—and omnipotent—having Him in our corner significantly boosts our chances. He also loves us unconditionally and wants to help us succeed.
Even if you feel like life has dealt you some crushing blows and you don’t know if you can recover, or you fear you’ve outlasted your usefulness or are worthless, don’t despair. God is in the upcycling business, and you never know what great things He might have in store for you just around the corner.