It really interests me how Christians often simply don't believe in the reality or possibility of physical, emotional, and spiritual transformation.  They look at this kind of talk as mere hype.  I've laid the groundwork for this in parts 1-3 of this series.  So now I want to shout it:  Transformation is both real and possible.  The only question is:  Are you willing to embark on that journey? 

The principle of personal transformation is vividly demonstrated, not only throughout biblical texts, but in our current world.  Specific people rise above their current or former bad circumstances and life situations, grow into new roles, and embrace something more for themselves to fulfill a higher calling from God.  One thing becomes clear from these stories:  God works in different ways with different people at different times and places to accomplish different things.  Always his will, of course, but no two are exactly alike.  In this post, I'll take a look at a few stories and how they call us to the real possibility of becoming a "new you."

People Made New

Moses: A Long Path 

The story about Moses' life is a kind of slow whirlwind of equipping and calling all mixed up together. Exodus takes us from his birth, to how and where he was raised, to his banishment, through his life as a shepherd, to his experience at the burning bush (Ex 3-4).  All of it was turned into something new and amazing by God. Through obedience, trust, and perseverance, Moses was slowly turned into the leader Israel needed, transforming him from a fearful shepherd into the bold deliverer God called him to be.

Ruth: From Widow to Redeemed Ancestor of a King

Ruth’s story is one of loyalty, courage, and quiet transformation. The Book of Ruth presents her as a Moabite widow who chooses to follow her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi, declaring, “Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). Her steadfast commitment leads her to work diligently in the fields of Boaz, where her integrity and devotion earn her favor (Ruth 2:11–12). Through Boaz’s redemption and marriage to Ruth, she becomes part of the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ (Ruth 4:13–17; Mt 1:5). Ruth’s story demonstrates that faithfulness and trust in God can transform even the most uncertain and difficult circumstances into a legacy of hope and redemption.

David: From Shepherd Boy to King

David’s story (1Sam 16–17) offers another good example.  Anointed as king while still quite a young man, David didn’t step into his role as King until he went through some things. As Shepherd, he played the harp for Saul and, at about age 20, personally faced down a colossal enemy that no Israelite warrior dared face.  Because of Saul's paranoia, David then ran for his life for up to a decade learning patience, leadership, and dependence on God. Each stage demanded a different version of David to show up.

Mary Magdalene: From Brokenness to Bold Witness

Mary Magdalene’s journey is one of profound transformation and unwavering devotion. Luke emphasizes her healing from “seven demons” and her steadfast support of Jesus’ ministry (Lk 8:2–3). Mark underscores her role as the first to encounter the risen Christ and her obedience in sharing the news (Mk 16:9–11). Matthew highlights her presence at the crucifixion and resurrection as a faithful witness (Mt 27:55–61; 28:1–10). John captures her deep personal connection with Jesus, showcasing her emotional encounter with the risen Christ in the garden (Jn 20:11–18). Together, the Gospels portray Mary as a once tormented woman transformed by grace, steadfast in devotion, and entrusted with the extraordinary role of proclaiming the resurrection.

Peter: From Denial to Devotion

Peter’s personal journey is one of redemption and growth.  The Gospels present him as a bold yet flawed disciple: Matthew highlights his leadership, Mark emphasizes his impulsiveness and honesty, Luke focuses on his repentance and restoration, and John showcases his passionate love for Jesus. Together, they portray Peter as a deeply human figure shaped by faith, failure, and grace, all working at the same time.  Peter did not start out as an apostle.  He stepped into his role slowly, reluctantly, and humbly, as a foundational leader of the earliest church.

Paul: From Persecutor to Apostle

Paul’s transformation on the road to Damascus (Acts 9) is one of the most striking biblical examples of transformation. From a zealous persecutor of Christians to one of the greatest apostles, Paul’s journey was marked by humility, boldness, and unwavering faith. Reflecting on this in Philippians 3:12–14, Paul writes, “I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me,” emphasizing that transformation is not a "one and done" act.  It is a continuing process.  Paul captures this powerful principle in Romans 12:2:

My brothers and sisters, here's my appeal to you by the mercies of God:  Offer your bodies as a sacrifice to God—alive, holy and acceptable!  Make this a well-thought-out service to God!  Don't allow yourselves to be shaped by this world-age, but have a transformed mind—new!—so as to live up to what is the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God.  (Rom. 12:1-2 )

Growth, transformation, and renewal are central to the Christian journey. The "you" who begins the journey isn’t always the "you" who eventually comes into existence.  Transformation requires a willingness to change, to have faith, and to take steps into new habits and mindsets.

Two Recent Examples 

John Newton: According to Amazing Grace: The Life of John Newton by Jonathan Aitken (1997), John Newton’s transformation from a slave trader to a Christian minister is one of history’s most profound stories of redemption. As recounted in Aitken’s biography, Newton’s turning point came during a violent storm at sea. In a moment of terror and desperation, he cried out to God for mercy. Though he survived the storm, his transformation was gradual, not instant. Newton continued in the slave trade for a time, but a deep sense of conviction and faith began to reshape his character. Eventually, he renounced the trade, became an Anglican minister, and devoted his life to sharing the message of God’s grace. Newton used his past failures as a testimony, writing the hymn “Amazing Grace” and working alongside William Wilberforce to abolish the slave trade. His life serves as a lasting example of courage, surrender, and the transformative power of faith.

Lecrae Moore:  I'm not a Rap fan.  I don't think I have the musical intelligence to appreciate it.  But a lot of people do like it, including my kids.  But regardless of my personal blind spots, I highly recommend this next video.  It's not a rap song, but a Christian rapper.  And I highly, highly, highly recommend the entire video.  I've got it set to start at 10:00 minutes because it's about the very things on this blog post, but I recommend the entire video.

In case you don't know, Lecrae Devaughn Moore is a Grammy Award-winning Christian hip-hop artist.  He shares his own journey of transformation in his memoir, Unashamed.  Born into a broken home, Lecrae grew up without a father and was exposed to abuse, drugs, and violence at a young age. Searching for identity and validation, he turned to destructive habits and struggled with feelings of worthlessness.

Lecrae’s turning point came when a friend invited him to a Christian conference. There, he encountered a message of God’s grace that challenged his view of himself and his life. However, his transformation was not instant. Lecrae wrestled with doubts, past trauma, and the pressures of both faith and fame. Over time, he surrendered his brokenness to God, allowing faith, courage, and trust to reshape his identity.

Today, Lecrae makes the statement, "If you fit neatly into any political party, then you do not fit neatly into the kingdom agenda."  He uses his music and platform to share his story of redemption, addressing struggles with faith, social justice, and authenticity. His life serves as a current day example of how God’s transformative power can address deep wounds, inspire change, and create a lasting impact on others.

Lessons to Learn

Lesson 1: Transformation often begins with a single act of courage and commitment.

Lesson 2: When God calls you to a new level, it often requires you to grow into the role rather than step into it fully prepared.

Lesson 3: Growth isn’t instantaneous—it’s a journey of developing trust, courage, and character.

Lesson 4: Past failures don’t disqualify you—they can be stepping stones for future growth.

Lesson 5: A new level often requires a deeper surrender to God’s transformative power.

Lesson 6: Transformation often begins with small, steady steps of faith, where embracing new truths shapes a renewed outlook and becomes a testimony to others.

Lesson 7: Transformation isn’t limited by a broken past—it’s defined by a willingness to respond to God’s call. Those who experience God’s healing and grace can become bold messengers of God's hope and renewal. Devotion, courage, and obedience are often the marks of a life profoundly changed by encountering Jesus.

Stepping Into the New You

Here are the same 7 lessons now turned into steps: 

Step 1: Take a bold step of courage and commitment.

Step 2: Embrace growth as a journey, not instant readiness.

Step 3: Build trust, courage, and character over time.

Step 4: Use past failures as stepping stones.

Step 5: Surrender deeply to God’s transformative power.

Step 6: Take steady steps of faith and share your testimony.

Step 7: Respond to God’s call with courage and devotion.

To reach new levels, a new version of you must show up—one shaped by faith in God, courage to take another step, and a willingness to believe that "a new you" is actually possible.  Who was it that said this:  “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”  (It was Paul.)

It’s time. Stand up. Step up. Allow a "new you" to show up.