Extreme Makeover Home Edition was in Savannah GA filming a few years ago. It was so great to see the transformation of a home from what it was to what it became. What a huge difference that was.
Does your life and marriage need an extreme makeover? That is what God does for us. He takes us as we are and transforms us into the men and women he wants us to be.
As we watched The Extreme Makeover, we noticed that they got the whole community involved. Everyone around was excited about the new change and a lot of people pitched in to help the change happen.
Years ago, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition came to Savannah, GA, transforming a family’s home in ways that left the community in awe. Watching the before-and-after comparison was breathtaking. It was more than just a renovation—it was a complete transformation, a fresh start. It got me thinking about how our lives and marriages often need a similar extreme makeover. The good news is that this is what God does best. He takes us as we are and transforms us into the people He created us to be, if we allow Him to do so.
The Community Effect
One of the most beautiful parts of Extreme Makeover was the involvement of the entire community. Neighbors, local businesses, and volunteers all pitched in to create something extraordinary. Everyone celebrated the change, and the excitement was contagious.
Similarly, when we allow God to transform our lives and marriages, we’ll often find that others around us are inspired. Friends, family, and even acquaintances may see the changes in us and feel motivated to pursue their own growth. This mirrors the church as described in Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Surrounding yourself with a positive, supportive community is essential. When God begins working on you, embrace the community He provides. They will cheer you on and help you stay the course.
Not Everyone Will Celebrate
However, not everyone celebrated the new home on Extreme Makeover. Some people were jealous, questioning why this family deserved such a gift. Similarly, when God starts transforming your life, not everyone will support you. Some may even criticize or distance themselves because your growth makes them uncomfortable. They see your transformation as a mirror reflecting their own need for change, and that’s hard for them to face.
I’ve experienced this firsthand. When I surrendered my life to God and broke free from addiction, not everyone in my circle was thrilled. Some friends faded away because the new me didn’t fit their lifestyle anymore. But God brought new people into my life—people who celebrated my growth and pushed me toward my calling. Their support was instrumental in my journey. As Proverbs 13:20 reminds us, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”
Transformation Takes Time
God’s process of transformation is rarely instantaneous. Think about weight loss: people who crash diet often gain the weight back because the change is too drastic to maintain. However, those who make gradual, sustainable changes—cutting 500 calories here, adding a bit of exercise there—are more likely to succeed long-term.
In the same way, God’s work in our lives is often slow and steady. He knows that sudden, overwhelming change can lead to burnout or regression. Instead, He refines us step by step. Reflecting on my 22 years of marriage to Sandy, I see how we’ve grown incrementally. The first decade laid the groundwork, and the last ten years have seen the most growth because we built upon that foundation. Growth compounds over time, whether in your personal life, marriage, or faith. It’s the daily habits—prayer, communication, acts of love—that lead to lasting transformation.
A Lesson from Chris Pratt
Actor Chris Pratt, known for his roles in Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World, has openly shared his journey of faith. He’s talked about how his relationship with God grew over time, not overnight. In one interview, he said, “God is real. God loves you. God wants the best for you. Believe that. I do.” His story reminds us that transformation is about consistency and surrender, trusting that God is working even when we don’t see immediate results.
The Power of Obedience
I’ll never forget when God told me to give Him 30 days. At the time, I was battling addiction and felt completely lost. I didn’t understand why God needed 30 days, but I obeyed. During that time, I experienced a slow but profound transformation. By the end of those 30 days, my desire for drugs and alcohol was completely gone. Looking back, I realize that my obedience was the key to unlocking God’s power in my life. Every miracle in the Bible is preceded by an act of obedience. If you’re seeking transformation, ask yourself: What step of obedience is God calling me to take today?
Lessons We Can Learn
- Transformation Takes Time: Be patient with yourself and others. Lasting change happens one step at a time.
- Community Matters: Surround yourself with people who will uplift and encourage you.
- Criticism is Inevitable: Don’t let the negativity of others derail your progress. Focus on those who celebrate your growth.
- Obedience Unlocks Miracles: God often asks for small steps of faith. Trust Him and follow through.
- God Has a Plan: Embrace the vision He reveals to you, even if it unfolds slowly.
Embrace the Vision
When God starts His work in you, He doesn’t just fix what’s broken—He gives you a vision for the future. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” But this vision requires your full commitment. God won’t force change upon you; He invites you to partner with Him in the process. Think of this as the blueprint for your life’s extreme makeover. Just as the TV show reveals the final design, God unveils His plans step by step as you trust Him.
Final Reflections
Growth is a journey, not a destination. As you walk this path, remember:
- Transformation is gradual; celebrate small victories along the way.
- Community plays a vital role in supporting your growth.
- Criticism can be a sign that you’re moving in the right direction.
- Obedience is the gateway to God’s miracles in your life.
- Vision gives you the perseverance to keep going.
Imagine looking back six months, a year, or even five years from now and being amazed at how far you’ve come. Just like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, the transformation won’t just change your external circumstances—it will redefine who you are at your core. God is ready and able to take you to the next level. Are you ready to let Him start your extreme makeover?
Living a God-Inspired Life,
Chris