July 19, 2025

GOD RADICALLY CHANGES OUR LIFE

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Dear brothers and sisters, I want you to understand that the gospel message I preach is not based on mere human reasoning. I received my message from no human source, and no one taught me. Instead, I received it by direct revelation from Jesus Christ. You know what I was like when I followed the Jewish religion—how I violently persecuted God’s church. I did my best to destroy it. I was far ahead of my fellow Jews in my zeal for the traditions of my ancestors. But even before I was born, God chose me and called me by his marvelous grace. Then it pleased him to reveal his Son to me so that I would proclaim the Good News about Jesus to the Gentiles. When this happened, I did not rush out to consult with any human being.”

 Galatians 1:11–16 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

Paul opens his heart and shares his testimony — showing how the grace of God radically changed his life. Here are four powerful truths we can draw from his story:

1. Paul wasn’t transformed by human intellect

Paul says plainly: “The gospel message I preach is not based on mere human reasoning.”

All of Paul’s years of rigorous training in the Scriptures could not open his eyes to Jesus — it took a direct encounter with the risen Lord.

Likewise, we must remember we cannot debate or argue people into salvation. Information alone does not transform hearts; only the Holy Spirit can reveal Jesus personally. It may not be as dramatic as Paul’s Damascus Road experience, but every true believer has a moment when the truth of Christ comes alive in their heart.

2. Paul was trapped in religious tradition

Paul was deeply devoted to the traditions of his ancestors — so much so that he violently persecuted the early church. His story is a warning: it’s possible to be religious yet far from God.

We can grow up in church, know all the right words, and still not have a living relationship with Jesus. Faith is not about empty tradition but about knowing the One who gives us life.

3. Paul recognized God’s plan was always working

Paul writes, “Even before I was born, God chose me and called me by his marvelous grace.”

When he looked back, Paul saw that God was weaving every detail — his upbringing, his education, even his mistakes — into His greater plan.

This is true for us, too. Our lives may feel like a mix of good and bad pieces, but God is working all things together for His purpose. He wastes nothing.

4. Paul didn’t rush to seek human validation

After his encounter with Jesus, Paul didn’t immediately run to others for approval. He spent time alone with God, letting the Holy Spirit shape him before stepping into public ministry.

In our own lives, we need to hear God’s voice for ourselves. Others can confirm our calling, but they cannot replace what God wants to speak directly to our hearts.

Questions to Reflect On

• Are there any traditions or mindsets holding you back from a vibrant walk with Jesus?

• Can you see how God has been working in your life, even in ways that didn’t make sense at the time?

• Have you set aside time to be with God alone so He can prepare you for what’s ahead?

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, I want You to lead my life. Break down any traditions or barriers that keep me from fully living in Your plan. Thank You for working in my life, even when I don’t see it. Help me trust that You are preparing me for what’s next and give me the discipline to follow where You lead. In Jesus’ name, amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”