I walked through my front door yesterday morning at 8:10 am. It was a beautiful moment. While I loved being with my Ohio family and wouldn’t trade a single minute there, I missed home. I love the feeling that washes over me when I arrive home. My safe haven. My familiar place. The beauty, the scents, the security, the ways of home.

And yet, things have changed here at home. My daughter put up my Christmas trees while I was away. No decorations, but they are covered in lights and that makes me very happy. As I look out my office window there is change as well. Neighbors have put up outdoor Christmas decorations and again, that makes me happy.

But here’s the important thing for me to remember today. It doesn’t matter where I am or who I’m with to be at home with God. Yes, He asks me to do some of the familiar things in my life such as meet with Him regularly and study His Word. But God also asks me to change. To be transformed by what I study.

Maybe you’ve heard Lisa TerKeurst say this. “We need to be more than just Bible study girls.” There must be transformation as we read and study God’s Word. We must be changed. We must become more and more like Jesus.

Paul mentioned transformation to the Corinthian believers. “And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:18 – NIV)

As we are transformed into God’s likeness, we reflect His glory. And notice that it’s an ongoing process. We are “being” transformed. That’s why continual Bible study is important. Through His own words, God will show us where we need transformation to take place.

Paul also mentioned transformation to the Roman believers. “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2 – NIV)

Renewed minds will move us closer to being the transformed people of God who are continually seeking God’s will for our lives. When our will is taken out of the equation, God is able to use us in mighty ways.

If you don’t believe me, just look at the lives of Joseph. Of Daniel. Of Mary or Joseph. Of Esther. Of Paul. These men and women allowed God’s will to permeate their lives and did what God asked of them. They were transformed by God’s Spirit and God was able to use them.

Maybe today you need to be transformed. Transformed from your former self into God’s glorious image. If that is the case, spend time with God. Allow Him to point you in the direction you need to move. Study His words. He will provide all that you need.

“His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” (2 Peter 1:3 – NIV)

As I sit in my familiar home office this morning I’m reminded of the tune from My Fair Lady, “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face.” I don’t know, I like the familiar “face” of home. The smiles, the frowns, the ups and downs. The joys, the woes, the highs and lows. These are all things that I love about home.

Oh, I miss the people that I left behind in Ohio. More than I could possibly express, but my heart is there, so home is there as well. It sure is good to be home.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna