Do you show evidence of the transforming power of the Holy Spirit in your daily life? A look back at the disciples before and after photos gives us some things to look for in our own personal lives.

Before they received the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, they were troubled (Jn. 14:1), confused (v5; Jn. 16:7,8), feeling a little abandon or alone (14:18), afraid (14:27), intimidated (Mt. 26:56), unsure (Acts 1:4-6). These are feelings we can relate to in our daily lives.

But after the Holy Spirit transformed them, they were performing divine tasks with great power and results (Eph. 2:1-11); they were bold and confident to preach the Gospel and live out loud (v. 38-41); they were uninitiated by opposition (Acts 4:1-13; 18-20) and they were filled with joy, not based on circumstances (Acts 5:40-42). What was it that brought about this great transformation? Was it the power of positive thinking? A change in environment or the encouragement of others to be all they can be? No.

It was the work of the Holy Spirit in and through them — just as it should be for us. The same Holy Spirit who empowered and transformed these men desires to do the same in us.

“And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.” (Eph 5:18).

As we can relate to the feelings of the disciples before they were transformed, can we as easily relate the fact that they were transformed?

Dr. William Burnham is pastor of Point of Grace Church in Covington. He can be reached at burnhamw@charter.net.