How Do I Make Change Last? A Lesson from The First Disciples in Acts

Nothing beats the adrenaline rush of being motivated to make a change, but how do you make that change last? Lasting change is hard for us humans, but it’s not hard for God. In fact, it’s one of the greatest things about having a relationship with God; God’s incredible power is always available to us, and it can change us from the inside out.

The book of Acts in the Bible tells us about regular people who relied on God to help them change. Their change not only lasted but also caught the attention of people around them, who caught the vision that God could help them change too.

So what do you want to change? Let’s learn from the first Christians in Acts 2 how to let God’s incredible power change us from the inside out.

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I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power [20] that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms.

Ephesians 1:19-20 NLT

When the day of Pentecost came, all the believers gathered in one place. [2] Suddenly a sound came from heaven. It was like a strong wind blowing. It filled the whole house where they were sitting. [3] They saw something that looked like fire in the shape of tongues. The flames separated and came to rest on each of them. [4] All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit. They began to speak in languages they had not known before. The Spirit gave them the ability to do this. [5] Godly Jews from every country in the world were staying in Jerusalem. [6] A crowd came together when they heard the sound. They were bewildered because each of them heard their own language being spoken. [12] They were amazed and bewildered. They asked one another, “What does this mean?”

Acts 2:1-6,12 NIrV

“So be sure of this, all you people of Israel. You nailed Jesus to the cross. But God has made him both Lord and Messiah.” [37] When the people heard this, it had a deep effect on them. They said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” [38] Peter replied, “All of you must turn away from your sins and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then your sins will be forgiven. You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. [39] The promise is for you and your children. It is also for all who are far away. It is for all whom the Lord our God will choose.”

Acts 2:36-39 NIrV

The believers studied what the apostles taught. They shared their lives together. They ate and prayed together. [43] Everyone was amazed at what God was doing. They were amazed when the apostles performed many wonders and signs. [44] All the believers were together. They shared everything they had. [45] They sold property and other things they owned. They gave to anyone who needed something. [46] Every day they met together in the temple courtyard. They ate meals together in their homes. Their hearts were glad and sincere. [47] They praised God. They were respected by all the people. Every day the Lord added to their group those who were being saved.

Acts 2:42-47 NIrV