Growth Through ChangeSample

The principles of faith directly intertwine with the concept of change.

There are numerous Biblical examples that demonstrate the transformative power of growth and change.

When I think about change from a believer’s perspective, the first person that comes to mind is Paul, also known as Saul.

Early in his life, Paul led what is considered to be the first great persecution of early Christians. He was so determined that he literally went door to door, dragging believers from their homes, and throwing them in prison. Paul was an enemy of God’s people, waging war on believers.

One day, as Paul was on his way to Damascus to continue his persecution, he heard the Voice of Jesus, asking why he persecuted Him. God struck Paul blind. Paul had to be led by his companions to the city, where he later met a Christian by the name of Ananias. Paul was later cured of his blindness, and baptized in the Name of Jesus!

This change was followed by a lifetime of further growth, as Paul dedicated the rest of his life to spreading the Gospel. Paul performed miracles, led a ministry of his own, and wrote over half of the New Testament. He went from an enemy of Jesus to a student. The Paul who left Damascus looked nothing like the man who walked into Damascus.

That is the power of change.

Paul went from a vicious enemy of God’s people and grew to lead these very same people in the Name of Jesus. This process of growth required a Divine Change, and a Divine Change required action on Paul's part! Paul could have stopped once he regained his sight. He could have even chosen to continue his persecution. Instead, Paul chased a newfound goal: to make a positive impact even bigger than the negative impact he was previously making!

Today, the Apostle Paul is remembered for his determination to share the Word of God for the rest of his life. His transformation is perhaps the most extreme example of growth within the Bible.

And this growth was the result of a Divine Intervention, and Paul’s willingness to embrace change.