We have all seen the before and after shots. They proclaim, I was like this; now, I am improved and better. The pictures will then go on to tell about some wonderful product or workout routine or diet plan or … fill in the blank … that has led them to the “after.”

Today’s passage reminds me of the “before” pictures. However, this before shot has eternal consequences. Paul outlines our journey from death (separation from God) to life (relationship with God).

The Before – We were:

• Dead in trespasses and sins. This death was a severed relationship with God through our offenses against Him. We were separated from Him.
• Walking in the ways of the world.
• Following the prince of the power of the air (devil) who works in the disobedient to God.
• Living selfishly, based on what we wanted.
• Doing whatever we pleased.
• Naturally acting from a place of wrath.

Woah… what an ugly picture. It reminds me of a spoiled rotten, manipulative, lying, selfish brat. Most importantly, we were separated from God.

But, notice that is the before. Then, the Scripture uses a very important word of only three letters, the word “but.” You see, even in all of the nastiness in which we were living, He still loved(s) us. Isn’t that amazing? He wants us to move from the “before” to the “after!”

Maybe there are some who say, “I am still in the before. I don’t have a relationship with God. How can I have a relationship with God? How can I have an “After?” We would love to talk to you about this. You can also learn more here.

Before and after. In between there is significant change and work. I can’t wait to see the “after” picture tomorrow!