Sunday Sermon: The Transformation – Changing from the Inside Out

by Minister Denise N. Fyffe

Some years ago, I noticed there is something undeniably powerful taking place in my life, and I could feel it deep within my soul. It’s a change that was slow in coming but had made its presence known, and it’s so impactful that I can’t help but share it with you. I was changing! God was doing something new in me, and I want to testify about the transformation that was taking place, not only in my behavior but in my mind, my desires, and my heart.

The Catalyst: A Three-Week Fast

It all started after I completed a three-week fast—not from food, but from watching my shows. I don’t watch TV channels, but I stream shows online. This fast wasn’t something I initially thought would be so impactful. After all, it was just a break from entertainment, right? But that fast turned out to be more powerful than I ever imagined.

When I ended the fast, I noticed something incredible. I felt less inclined to watch the more “morally questionable” shows that used to be a staple in my viewing. I was three episodes behind on most of them, and when I thought about catching up, I felt somewhat repulsed. I can’t fully explain it, but I believe it was God working in me, changing my desires and inclinations.

Romans 12:2 (KJV) says, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” That’s exactly what was happening, I was being transformed by the renewal of my mind. The things that once entertained me were no longer appealing, and the things of God was drawing me closer to Him.

Feeding on the Word of God

During that period, I had been feeding my spirit with the Word of God daily. Whether it’s through sermons, Bible studies with Chip Ingram, or listening to my favorite gospel worship songs, I had been intentional about staying in God’s presence. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV) calls us to “Pray without ceasing,” and that’s what I’ve been doing. Even in the middle of the night, when I wake up, my subconscious seems to be having a worship session on its own. It’s as if God is now at the forefront of my every thought, even when I’m not consciously thinking about Him.

The more I focus on God, the more He changes me from the inside out. Philippians 4:8 (KJV) says, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”  This was what I did, and it had a profound impact on my life.

Behavioral Changes: God at Work in Me

I noticed that I was more conscious of my behavior. I felt a deep sense of conviction when I encountered negativity. I was repulsed by negative people and conversations, and I found myself quickly apologizing if I felt I had wronged someone. There was a noticeable shift in my spirit—I was abstaining from fleshly indulgences that used to entangle me, and the most miraculous part was that I had no urge to go back to them. It’s as if I was once a cigarette addict who now had no desire to smoke.

It was nothing short of the power of God at work in my life. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV) reminds us, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” That’s exactly how I felt—like a new creature in Christ. It’s not that I wasn’t serving God before, but then I felt like I was serving Him with my whole heart, mind, and soul.

A Desire for More of God

The transformation had been so complete that I had a desire to serve God in every capacity. I wanted to go to church every day. I wanted to be involved in the ministry. In fact, I begun to consider whether God was calling me into full-time ministry, because I was no longer satisfied with my day job. There was a fire within me that could only be fueled by more of God.

Psalm 42:1-2 (KJV) expresses this longing perfectly: “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?” This is how I feel—thirsty for more of God, for His presence, and for His purpose in my life.

I was reading my Bible more, and not out of obligation, but out of a genuine desire to know God more deeply. My spiritual gifts were becoming clearer, and I was readily sharing what God told me for others. God was restoring everything the enemy had stolen from me, and miracles are happening all around me. Joel 2:25 (KJV) says, “And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten…” I was seeing God fulfilling this promise in my life, and I am in awe of His goodness.

God’s Ever-Present Guidance

What’s more, God had become my constant companion. He is always with me—in my thoughts, in my heart, and in my spirit. Psalm 139:7-8 (KJV) declares, “Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.” God is everywhere around and within me, and I am now more aware of it than ever before.

If this is what happens when you feast on God every day—when you focus your mind, heart, and soul on Him—then I want more. I want more of His presence, more of His guidance, and more of His love shaping every part of my life.

Conclusion

Brothers and sisters, the transformation that God had done in my life was a testament to His power and His grace. When we dedicate ourselves to Him, He begins to change us from the inside out—changing our desires, renewing our minds, and aligning our hearts with His will. Ezekiel 36:26 (KJV) says, “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.” This was what God is doing in me, and He can do it in you too.

I encourage you today—if you’ve been feeling distant from God, if distractions have taken over, or if you’ve lost your hunger for Him, take a moment to refocus. Dedicate your time, your mind, and your heart to Him. Start with one small step—whether it’s fasting, spending more time in prayer, or immersing yourself in His Word. Watch how God begins to transform you, just as He is transforming me.

Closing Prayer

Let us pray.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible work You are doing in our lives. Thank You for transforming us from the inside out, renewing our minds, and drawing us closer to You. Lord, help us to stay focused on You, to desire more of Your presence, and to serve You with all our heart, soul, and mind. Continue the good work You have started in us, and let Your will be done in every area of our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessing

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He continue to transform you, renew your mind, and give you the desire to seek Him more each day. May His presence fill your life, and may you walk in the fullness of His grace and power. Amen.

I hope you find today’s sermon helpful and applicable to your life. I pray that the Word of God works effectively in your life.

Be encouraged and stay blessed.

 

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The Invitation

I invite you today to take a deep look at yourself and reflect on your life. Are you searching for something more? Are you satisfied with how things are today? Is God calling you to confess your sins, be baptized and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Have you been ignoring him? Have you been facing immense hardships and challenges? What can you do to take the first step?

Trust God to help you with that first step.

Be encouraged.

Be bold.

Click here to understand how to Answer the Call or answer the Altar Call.

It shall be well with you, in Jesus mighty name.

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And remember, be encouraged.

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About the writer:

Minister Denise N. Fyffe is a devoted Christian, author, and servant of God, whose life is guided by her faith and values. Since accepting Jesus Christ at a young age, she has made it her mission to share her journey. She also shares her knowledge of the Bible with others. Besides her passion for writing, Minister Fyffe is actively involved in outreach, Christian mentorship, and ministering the Word of God.