The Ultimate Make Over
What woman doesn't love the pampering of a relaxing facial or cleansing spa treatment, sloughing off the old, dull cells to make room for radiant new skin to emerge? Consider the exhilaration she feels when she looks into the mirror at the fruit of an exhaustive year-long nutrition and fitness program. What, on earth, is as soul-lifting as a wearing a new hair-do or slipping into a stunning, new dress? I can't think of much, accept maybe, stepping into the perfect pair of high heels.
But more essential than revitalizing body and soul, the spirit needs its own make over. And our Abba (daddy) father has given us a gift certificate for this cleansing treatment. We simply have to present the certificate to take advantage of the gift.
This deep-cleansing rejuvenation, while thorough, is instantaneous. What was dull, even dead, is now glorious in the eyes of God. However, the manifested fruit may take some time and personal effort.
II Corinthians 5:17 says:
17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away: behold, all things are become new.
Our daddy has also paid for a whole new wardrobe for us... by the blood of His dear Son, Jesus. It is our responsibility to get dressed. God commands us, in Ephesians 6:11 and 6:13-17, to put on the whole armor. Let's take a look:
11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Now, on to verse thirteen:
13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
17 And take the helmet of of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Are you ready to see the after? Are you tired of feeling unfulfilled with life, as it is right now? If you need a restorative treatment, present your gift certificate for the ultimate make over, please read the following prayer aloud and in faith:
Dear Heavenly Father,
I have not lived a life that is pleasing to you and I know I cannot enter heaven in this condition. Father, today I accept your gift of eternal life purchased by your son Jesus Christ. I acknowledge Christ's ultimate sacrifice: His agonizing death on the cross, because I have missed the mark. He had no sin of His own, yet He took the penalty of sin and rose from the dead for me.
Today, I change my life's direction and ask you to forgive me. I confess you as my Savior and give you permission to take full control of my life, Lord.
Holy Spirit, thank you in advance, for directing and empowering me to bear the sweet fruit of my new life in Christ.
In Jesus' name, Amen