1 Thessalonians 2:13 King James Version (KJV) For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

We are reading from the KJV this morning to address the wording “effectually worketh” which in the Greek is energeō. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon identifies it as intransitive, to be operative, be at work, put forth power. What we do know about energy is that it cannot be lost but can be translated to effect change. The power of the Holy Spirit abiding in us uses the Word of God to change us.

While the transformation of the mind is required to align our thinking patterns, it is not required to change our hearts. In our former lives education came to mind and then taken to heart. This spiritual concepts are designed to change the heart and then educate the mind with spiritual understanding which is provided by the Holy Spirit.

1 Corinthians 8:1b-3 English Standard Version

 ¹ …we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” This “knowledge” puffs up, but love builds up. ² If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. ³ But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.

Can we see that the abiding presence of God in our hearts changes our hearts? If so then the abiding love will reveal to us God’s truths as we read His Word and changes our minds and way of thinking?

A lifetime of being told that effort brings reward has to be overcome to understand that we need to let go and let God. We will receive the benefits of change if we allow God to just let it happen.

Energeō!!

2 Corinthians 3:18 English Standard Version (ESV) And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord,^{[reflecting the glory of the Lord]} are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.^{[from glory to glory]} For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

Spending time with new believers and getting to know them gives us an opportunity to see them change. They may not even be aware of it themselves. As their former lives fade and the new life in Christ appears it is encouraging to know their salvation is real and the work of the Lord is alive in them.

Over the years we may also wake up to the knowledge that we ourselves have changed without a complete understanding of just how it happened. This come from the Lord who is Spirit. As was said yesterday, He is Lord and has not relinquished authority over us. Being gentle and kind some changes are initiated without our involvement. Other things need to be changed by repentance. Our actions are a reflection on Him and when our behaviors reflect badly on Him, then discipline is required.

Hebrews 12:11 English Standard Version (ESV) For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

It might seem like a great mystery as to how we are changed without our understanding but it might be just as simple as spending quality time with God in His Word. Even the oldest and most transformed among us spend time reading their bibles with a loving respect.  It is a good habit developed over decades of a loving relationship with God.

We tend to do what we love.