IT IS TIME FOR A MAKEOVER
In Isaiah 43, specifically verses 18 and 19, God instructs us not to dwell on past experiences, emphasizing the importance of embracing new beginnings. The scripture states, “Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. I will do a new thing.” This passage highlights the unchanging nature of God, who, despite His constancy, brings about transformation in our lives. As noted in Malachi 3:6, God declares, “I am the Lord, I change not,” which reassures us that His steadfastness is the reason the descendants of Jacob are not consumed. Furthermore, Lamentations 3:22-23 reinforces this theme by proclaiming that God’s mercies are renewed each morning, affirming that His compassion remains unfailing. This daily renewal invites us to cultivate a mindset that anticipates fresh experiences and divine interventions, encouraging us to engage with God in a manner that expects newness in our lives.
The essence of this newness is rooted in internal transformation, which is distinct from external changes. This concept of internal change is the focus of my discussion today, aptly titled “It’s Time For A Makeover.” I recall a narrative about a group of hairstylists and barbers in America who sought to demonstrate their societal impact. They formed a committee composed of skilled professionals to devise a strategy that would effectively showcase their capabilities. One particularly successful approach involved selecting an individual from a challenging background, often referred to as a “ghetto boy,” whose appearance was markedly unkempt. By providing him with a makeover, they aimed to illustrate the profound effects that skilled barbers and hairstylists can have on an individual’s self-image and confidence, thereby highlighting the transformative power of their craft.
They ventured into the impoverished neighborhood, seeking out young men who appeared to be in dire need of assistance, their unkempt appearances and tattered clothing blending almost seamlessly with their skin tones. After identifying one such individual, they approached him with an enticing offer: a job opportunity that would capture his attention. They assured him of their willingness to provide financial support, handing him $20 simply for engaging in conversation. This initial gesture was a means to secure his cooperation, and they explained that they would accommodate him in a hotel while he participated as an usher at their upcoming convention, promising a daily wage of $100 for the next two weeks. The prospect of earning such a substantial amount motivated him to accept their proposal.
Once he agreed, they took him to a hotel where he was pampered with a professional haircut and a clean shave, transforming his appearance significantly. Following this, they indulged him with a shopping spree at various upscale boutiques, where he was outfitted with a stylish suit, a tie, and shoes that complemented his new look. The transformation was so remarkable that they arranged for a professional photographer to conduct an extensive photo shoot, capturing him from multiple angles and directing him on poses to ensure the best presentation. The resulting images were so striking that they resembled those of a prominent figure, and they created a life-size display of him in his designer attire. This display, along with the original photograph taken in the ghetto, was prominently featured in the lobby of the convention center, ensuring that all attendees would see the dramatic change and the story behind it as they entered the venue.
After the individual was accommodated in the hotel, he was provided with ample nourishment and a well-balanced diet. On the day of the convention, he served as an usher, standing beside life-sized photo displays and greeting attendees with enthusiasm. The guests were visibly impressed, marveling at the transformation of the man they had seen in the photographs. As they entered the convention center, he participated in a compelling presentation that garnered significant praise and recognition from government officials. The event was deemed a resounding success, and once it concluded, everyone returned to their respective vacations. The man received his final payment and departed, but unfortunately, he soon returned to his previous life in the slums. Within a few days, he sold off all the suits and ties he had acquired, opting not to pursue job opportunities downtown, but instead reverting to his former circumstances.
Upon returning from their holidays, the colleagues resumed their work and engaged in casual conversations. During one of these discussions, a business owner mentioned the man from the convention, but they struggled to recall his name. Attempts to remember the name he had provided, which was not his actual name, proved futile. One colleague suggested offering him a job due to his commendable performance at the convention, prompting them to search for him. They dispatched individuals to the slum, but the challenge arose when they brought only smaller versions of the photographs featuring him in designer attire. Upon arrival, the locals were unable to identify him by the name he had given. Realizing the discrepancy, they recalled that his real name was likely different, and after some deliberation, they decided to retrieve an older photograph. Armed with this image, they returned to the slum, and within five minutes, they successfully located Jango.
He appeared just as he did on the day he was first brought in, and this observation was made only three to four weeks later. At this juncture, one comes to the realization that mere visits to American barbers and hair stylists are insufficient for achieving a profound transformation in life. The adage that one can remove a man from the ghetto but cannot remove the ghetto from within him holds true; genuine change requires a deeper, more substantial effort. It necessitates an internal awakening, a spiritual renewal, and a thorough deconstruction of ingrained beliefs and habits. True transformation is an inside-out process, and when we discuss the concept of new beginnings, it is imperative to understand that such change must originate from within.
To facilitate this internal change that can lead to a renewed life, one must consider the foundational elements that shape our internal structures. These elements are primarily influenced by two factors: our DNA, which represents our inherent nature, and our nurture, which encompasses the environmental influences and upbringing we have experienced. Both of these factors are largely beyond our control; we do not choose our genetic makeup, nor do we select the schools we attend during our formative years. Unlike todayâs children, who may express preferences regarding their education, many of us had no say in such matters and were compelled to attend the schools designated for us, often under strict discipline. The world has evolved, and while we may have had limited choices regarding our nature and nurture, the decisions we make remain within our power. It is through these choices that we can potentially alter the impacts of both our genetic and environmental backgrounds.
One may begin life in a state of poverty, yet the choices one makes can lead to the creation of wealth for others, ultimately resulting in personal prosperity. The notion that individuals are bound by their past is a misconception; destiny holds greater power than history. It is essential to recognize that the decisions we make are pivotal in shaping our future. The inquiry we must engage in is how to rise above the influences of our upbringing and environment to make choices that align with our true purposeâwhat can be understood as the divine intention for our lives. This journey towards fulfilling one’s destiny is fundamentally about the decisions that guide us toward the future envisioned for us.
Opportunities are available to all, regardless of race, background, or familial circumstances. Whether one hails from a rural village or an urban center, the potential for success exists for everyone. The key lies in the decisions made along the way; choosing a specific path can lead to transformative outcomes. As we delve into the internal aspects that influence our lives, we must examine our thoughts, belief systems, and attitudes. Proverbs 23:7 reminds us that our inner thoughts shape our reality. It is crucial to identify and address limiting beliefs and negative attitudes that may hinder our progress. Often, individuals may be unaware of their detrimental thought patterns, which can create barriers to their success. Recognizing and deconstructing these internal structures is vital for personal growth and the realization of one’s destiny.
Diet encompasses not only the food we consume but also the myriad of influences that shape our perceptions and beliefs over time. This includes the messages we receive from our environment, particularly during formative years in school or within challenging neighborhoods. For instance, a young girl may internalize negative comments about her appearance, leading to a distorted self-image that persists into adulthood. These experiences, whether they stem from direct criticism or the modeling of behaviors by those around us, contribute to our understanding of ourselves and the world. The information we absorbâwhether through spoken words, visual representations, or literatureâplays a crucial role in shaping our identities and relationships.
Moreover, the literature we engage with can significantly influence our expectations and understanding of complex concepts such as love and relationships. Many individuals, for example, may find their perceptions of romance skewed by reading unrealistic portrayals in popular novels, such as those by Mills and Boon. This can lead to difficulties in forming and maintaining healthy relationships, as the ideals presented in such works often do not reflect reality. A notable example is a pastor who recounted how his extensive reading of James Hadley Chase novels influenced his behavior, leading him to adopt a criminal mindset. This illustrates the profound impact that the narratives we consume can have on our actions and beliefs, often without us questioning the validity or the outcomes of the lives of the authors behind these stories.
A theft occurred, and the true perpetrator managed to evade detection, leading to the wrongful accusation of another individual. This situation escalated to the point where the innocent party faced severe consequences, potentially being expelled or arrested, while the actual thief remained unscathed. One of our pastors, whose name I will refrain from mentioning, observed this injustice and resolved to apply the principles he had been studying in detective fiction. His writings had influenced many of us, shaping our thoughts and behaviors. To achieve transformation in our lives, it is essential to address the underlying emotional and psychological patterns that have been ingrained in us, as these habits can significantly hinder our ability to embrace new experiences.
Furthermore, it is crucial to examine our internal emotional landscape, as feelings of fear, depression, and overwhelm can profoundly impact our daily existence. I began my discussion by referencing Romans 14:17, which highlights the importance of engaging with the forces of the Kingdom. Without this mindset, negative emotions can persist. Many individuals grow up in environments devoid of joy, where expressing happiness is met with punishment or disdain. Such upbringing can create barriers to emotional freedom, making it challenging for them to relax and enjoy life. When one enters the Kingdom of God, there is an invitation to embark on a journey of renewal, addressing these deep-seated issues that have long constrained personal growth and happiness.
The central inquiry this morning revolves around the possibility of genuine transformation within oneself.
This contemplation aligns well with the message found in Jeremiah 13:23, where the prophet Jeremiah poses a profound question: “Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard his spots?” This rhetorical inquiry highlights the inherent challenges faced by the people of Israel during a time of moral decline. God, through Jeremiah, expresses a desire to facilitate a turnaround in their behavior, yet He acknowledges their stubbornness in clinging to their sinful nature. The metaphor of the leopard and the Ethiopian serves to illustrate the difficulty of altering one’s fundamental characteristics, suggesting that true change must originate from within rather than through superficial means.
Furthermore, the passage emphasizes the limitations imposed by one’s inherent nature, as exemplified by the Ethiopian’s skin color and the leopard’s spots. While it is acknowledged that external alterations, such as skin bleaching, may occur, these changes are ultimately superficial and do not affect one’s core identity. The essence of transformation lies in a deeper, internal re-engineering, which can only be achieved through divine intervention. God asserts that He can infuse His supernatural power into our natural inclinations, enabling us to transcend our limitations and achieve a higher standard of goodness. This divine empowerment suggests that while our nature may present challenges, it should not deter us from striving for excellence, as the potential for transformation exists when we align ourselves with God’s purpose.
The concept of the supernatural, particularly in relation to the workings of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, emphasizes the removal of limitations that often confine our spiritual and mental capacities. The Holy Spirit seeks to elevate our understanding and capabilities, allowing us to transcend our natural inclinations. This transformative process enables believers to operate within the divine realm, aligning their thoughts and actions with those of God. As articulated in Isaiah 55:8-9, God’s ways and thoughts are infinitely higher than ours, suggesting that by choosing to follow Him, we can access a higher level of thinking and understanding. This divine elevation encourages believers to embrace the notion that they can think and act in ways that reflect God’s limitless nature.
Furthermore, the belief in the supernatural empowers individuals to confront and overcome the challenges they face, as it instills a sense of possibility that transcends human limitations. The biblical narrative illustrates this through figures like Abraham, who, despite his doubts and questions, ultimately believed in God’s promise, which was credited to him as righteousness. Such examples highlight that it is natural to grapple with doubts and arguments in our minds regarding the supernatural. However, the key lies in allowing God to dismantle these mental barriers, fostering a mindset that embraces the belief that with God, all things are possible. This shift in perspective not only facilitates healing and miraculous occurrences but also encourages believers to envision a future filled with divine possibilities, reinforcing the idea that thinking like God opens the door to extraordinary outcomes.
The desire to liberate your mind is rooted in the intention to embrace the transformative experiences that God wishes to manifest in your life. It is essential to remain engaged and receptive to this divine influence. As articulated in Philippians 2:13, it is God who operates within us, instilling both the desire and the capacity to fulfill His benevolent purposes. The pivotal question arises: will you permit Him to work within you? Will you open your heart to His presence and allow His spirit to flow through you, initiating a fresh beginning? This internal transformation, or makeover, is not merely a passive experience; it requires active participation on your part, particularly in the renewal of your mind.
To embark on this journey of internal renewal, one must first focus on the transformation of thought processes, as emphasized in Romans 12:2, which advocates for a metamorphosis through the renewal of the mind. This concept of reconciliation, which we discussed previously, involves aligning oneself with God’s directives for living. Embracing the belief that what God declares is achievable is crucial, even if it initially feels challenging. As you persist in adhering to His word, it gradually becomes your new reality. In 2020, to truly experience renewal, the extraordinary must transition into the ordinary. You should confidently affirm, as Pastor Joel Osteen often does, that the scriptures empower you to achieve what they proclaim. A renewed mind is not only enlightened but also fortified, as it allows the illuminating truth of God’s word to penetrate your heart, enabling you to confront and dismantle any strongholds, imaginations, or arguments that may hinder your spiritual growth.
In the tenth chapter of Second Corinthians, specifically beginning at verse three, it is articulated that while we exist in the physical realm, our struggles are not of a physical nature. The text emphasizes that our battle is not against flesh and blood; rather, the instruments we employ in this warfare are not of a worldly kind but are powerful through divine intervention, designed to dismantle strongholds. The term “stronghold” is derived from military language, referring to fortified positions built to resist attacks. In this context, strongholds represent mental barriers that can obstruct positive influences, as they are formed by a collection of entrenched beliefs, imaginations, and arguments that coalesce to create a formidable defense against new ideas or truths.
Historically, fortified cities were constructed near strategic locations, such as bodies of water, to provide early warning of approaching enemies and to mount a defense. This concept can be paralleled to the mental strongholds many individuals experience today. For instance, some women may harbor the belief that all men are inherently unfaithful, leading to a mindset that anticipates betrayal. This belief can manifest as a self-fulfilling prophecy, where the individual becomes overly vigilant, interpreting innocent actions as signs of infidelity. Such entrenched beliefs can create patterns that affect relationships, perpetuating the notion that marriages within certain families are doomed to fail. It is essential to recognize that these strongholds are not exclusive to any one gender; rather, they are universal challenges that can affect anyone, necessitating a collective effort to dismantle these mental barriers.
The prevailing mindsets can serve as barriers that the adversary employs to obstruct the positive influences of God’s word from permeating our thoughts. The Bible teaches us that we possess the ability to dismantle strongholds, and one effective method to achieve this is through the consistent application of Scripture in our lives. When faced with challenges such as difficulties in loving or forgiving others, it is essential to affirm our identity as children of God. By declaring that the essence of love resides within us and that we possess the ability to forgive freely in the name of Jesus, we actively engage in the process of dismantling these strongholds. Hebrews 4:12 emphasizes the potency of God’s word, describing it as sharper than any two-edged sword, capable of penetrating the very depths of our being. This divine word not only influences our external circumstances but also initiates profound transformations within us.
To facilitate genuine change, it is crucial to remain open to the teachings of Scripture, as true transformation originates from within. Additionally, during this period of anticipated change, it is vital to identify and confront negative patterns that may hinder our progress. These patterns, often referred to as familiar spirits, manifest recurrently within families and can lead to detrimental outcomes, such as premature death at a certain age. While it is important to approach these issues with sensitivity and seriousness, it is equally essential to recognize that such patterns may be rooted in spiritual attacks. The adversary often conceals itself behind mindsets, emotions, and habits that we have grown accustomed to, including dietary choices that may predispose families to specific health issues. Understanding these dynamics allows us to address both the spiritual and practical aspects of our lives, empowering us to break free from cycles of negativity and embrace the transformative power of God’s word.
In recent years, the esteemed Bishop T.D. Jakes shared a personal narrative regarding his family’s history of premature deaths, specifically noting that his grandfather and great-grandfather, along with his father, all passed away before reaching the age of fifty. Now in his sixties, Bishop Jakes reflected on the critical juncture he faced a little over a decade ago as he approached his own fiftieth birthday. Rather than solely relying on spiritual intervention, he took a comprehensive approach by examining the common factors that contributed to his ancestors’ untimely demises, which included obesity and heart-related issues. During his early forties, he experienced alarming heart palpitations after preaching, prompting him to take decisive action. Determined to break the generational cycle, he made significant lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthier diet and enhancing his physical fitness, ultimately becoming the first in his lineage to surpass the age of fifty.
Bishop Jakes emphasized that while prayer is undeniably powerful, it must be accompanied by proactive measures to effect real change. He cautioned against the tendency to seek deliverance through spiritual means without addressing underlying behavioral patterns. For instance, if a family is known for tumultuous marriages, it is essential to introspect and identify personal shortcomings, such as a bad temper, before attributing issues solely to external forces. He advocated for a dual approach that combines spiritual guidance with practical solutions, such as therapy, to address and mitigate these recurring issues. By doing so, individuals can break free from detrimental cycles and experience profound transformations in their lives. The message is clear: true change begins from within, and by observing and adjusting our habits, we can dismantle the strongholds of familiar spirits and pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling existence.
When seeking wisdom, it is essential to turn to God, as articulated in James 1:5-6, which encourages those who lack wisdom to ask of Him.
This divine wisdom is crucial for understanding the necessary changes in our lives that can prevent our prayers from being ineffective. Often, individuals may feel as though their prayers are unanswered or powerless, but this perception may stem from their unwillingness to alter certain behaviors or mindsets that limit God’s ability to work in their lives. Therefore, it is imperative to recognize the importance of inviting the Holy Spirit into this transformative process. The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in facilitating internal change, enabling believers to break free from limiting beliefs and patterns of thought.
Engaging with the Holy Spirit is not merely a suggestion but a necessity for spiritual growth and renewal. As stated in Ephesians 5:18, believers are urged not to be intoxicated with wine, which leads to reckless behavior, but rather to be filled with the Spirit. This filling empowers individuals to express themselves through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, fostering a deep connection with God. Such a relationship allows for an ongoing internal transformation, where the Holy Spirit assists in dismantling negative thoughts and imaginations. By actively resisting and casting down these recurrent thoughts, believers can assert their authority in Christ, declaring their confidence and success in various aspects of life. This proactive approach to thought management, grounded in faith and the power of the Holy Spirit, enables individuals to overcome doubts and fears, reinforcing their identity and purpose in Christ.
I firmly oppose the notion that contradicts my belief in the divine assurance that my rightful inheritance is peace. Consequently, I cultivate harmonious relationships and witness positive developments in my life. This year, I am preparing for marriage, and I affirm this in the name of Jesus. It is essential to engage in self-affirmation, actively countering negative thoughts and imaginations that may arise, particularly those instigated by the adversary. For instance, if memories of past traumas, such as molestation, resurface, it is crucial to confront these thoughts and reject them. By anchoring my mindset in the teachings of the Word of God, I can transform my perspective and align it with a more hopeful and constructive outlook.
In a previous discussion, I referenced a man who fathered twins under challenging circumstances. This individual struggled with alcoholism, frequently succumbing to drunkenness, which led to abusive behavior towards their mother and chaos within the household. The twins observed their father’s lifestyle, with one perceiving it as a form of enjoyment, while the other recognized it as detrimental and vowed to avoid such a path. Decades later, their lives reflected their choices: one became an alcoholic, while the other thrived as a professional, nurturing a family and achieving success. This illustrates how our internalization of modeled behaviors shapes our destinies. The advantage of Christianity lies in its ability to guide us away from harmful influences, as the Holy Spirit seeks to renew our minds, providing clarity and direction. It is imperative to expose oneself to positive influences, as a lack of exposure can hinder mental growth. Engaging with uplifting environments enhances understanding and facilitates personal development, making it essential to be intentional about the influences we allow into our lives. Glory be to Jesus.