Transformed by the Gospel, not Converted

Is there a difference between conversion and transformation? Oh, yes! Conversion is the act of changing from one religion to another. Changing the system of beliefs rather than actual lifestyle. Transforming is a totally different and radical change rather than conversion. Being transformed changes the belief system AND lifestyle. The gospel is something that transforms the life of the one who hears and believes it. It compels you to live differently while believing passionately in something that is hard to fathom. The gospel pushes me to have more faith than I could ever muster up in anything. To believe in something unseen can be really hard at times, but coming to know it as truth drives me toward something that is way out of my hands. The gospel calls me to live a life apart from what I want at times. It helps me love others in a deeper way because of the love first shown to me. There is so much that can be said about the personal change the gospel has in one person's life and to each his own change. The gospel empowers me to live fearlessly and faithfully to others and God. I can stand against the powers of this world because of the faith I have received because of the gospel. There is no place to live in doubt or fear of what's to come because of the assurance and message of the gospel.