*Have you ever told yourself, “This is just who I am. I can’t change,” or heard someone say, “Be true to yourself, or you’re just being fake”? Society often encourages us to cling to our self-made identities, convincing us that change is unnecessary. I used to believe that, too. But here’s a truth that changed everything for me: don’t let who you think you are stop you from becoming who God called you to be.
The New Creation: Letting God Shape You
When you fully surrender your life to Christ, you become a new creation. God begins the process of reshaping you, transforming you into the person He designed you to be. Think about it: if you stay exactly the same after coming to Christ, have you truly surrendered? Transformation is a hallmark of a life turned toward God.
2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us,
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
This doesn’t just mean adding “Christian” to your identity—it means allowing God to rework the very foundation of who you are. True change requires more than acknowledgment; it demands surrender. Only when we fully release control can God begin the deep work of transformation.
Biblical Proof of Transformation
The Bible is filled with examples of God transforming people to fulfill His purposes. One of the most striking is Saul’s conversion to Paul. Saul was a man consumed by hatred for Christians, actively working to destroy the church. But God had a different plan.
On the road to Damascus, Saul encountered Christ and was utterly transformed. His name was changed to Paul, signifying his new purpose and identity in Christ. Paul went on to become one of the most influential apostles, writing much of the New Testament. His story shows that no matter how far we’ve strayed, God can change us into something greater.
Another powerful example is Abraham. In Genesis 17:5, God says,
“No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations.”
Abram wasn’t just given a new name—he was given a new purpose. God’s calling redefined who he was, aligning his identity with the promise God had placed on his life. These transformations show us that when God changes someone, the results are undeniable. People around them can see the difference and marvel at God’s work.
My Story: Letting Go of “That’s Not Me”
I have always known that God was calling me to speak and share my story. Deep down, I could feel that tug, that undeniable sense of purpose. But for years, I allowed something to hold me back: my allergies. They’re severe, causing me to sniffle frequently, and I worried about how distracting or unprofessional it might seem while speaking. I let this limitation feel like a disability that disqualified me from answering God’s call.
I would tell myself, “That’s just not me. Someone else can do it better.” But the truth was, I was letting my insecurity stand in the way of God’s plan. One day, I realized that if God was calling me, then He would also equip me. With trembling faith, I prayed, “Okay, God, if this is where You want me to go, I’ll follow.”
Taking that first step wasn’t easy, but it was freeing. I’ve learned to lean on God’s strength rather than my own, trusting that His power is made perfect in my weakness. Today, I can say that embracing His call—sniffles and all—has led to opportunities & conversations I never thought possible. It’s a constant reminder that God doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.
Practical Steps for Embracing Transformation
If you’re ready to step into the person God has called you to be, here are some practical steps to get started:
- Identify What’s Holding You Back.
Ask yourself: What parts of my identity am I clinging to? Are there beliefs, habits, or fears that I need to release? - Surrender Completely.
Pray and tell God, “I’m giving You control. Transform me into the person You want me to be.” This isn’t a one-time prayer; it’s a daily act of surrender. - Take the First Step.
God often calls us to action before we feel ready. Don’t wait until you feel confident—move forward in faith. It might be serving in a new ministry, starting a conversation, or sharing your testimony. - Surround Yourself with Encouragement.
Connect with others who inspire you to grow spiritually. Community is crucial when you’re pursuing transformation. - Celebrate Small Victories.
Transformation is a process. Acknowledge the progress you’re making, no matter how small, and trust that God is working in you.
Reflection Points
- What excuses have you been making to avoid stepping into God’s calling?
- Are you willing to let go of who you’ve always been to become who God wants you to be?
- What’s one step you can take this week to move toward your calling?
God’s Purpose for You
You are God’s gift to you, but what you become is your gift back to Him. That requires change. Transformation is part of God’s plan, and it’s not just for your benefit—it’s for His glory. When others see the new creation God is shaping, your life becomes a powerful testimony.
Just as Saul became Paul and Abram became Abraham, God can take your weaknesses, your excuses, and your doubts, and turn them into something extraordinary. The only question is: will you let Him?
Take a step of faith today. Embrace the transformation, and watch as God leads you into the fullness of His purpose for your life.
Living a God-Inspired Life,
Chris