What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” 2 Cor. 6:16

The housing market of southern California was the most expensive of any place in the United States when Larry and I moved there the end of our first year of marriage. We had moved from the Midwest where you could buy a wonderful house for about a quarter of the price of the much less desirable homes in our new location. With the additional burden of 18% home interest rates, we were very bummed and feared we’d never find a home we could afford and like.

After a year of frustrated searching we found a sixty year old, 800 square foot house in a charming neighborhood of mostly retired folks. Formerly inhabited by a motor cycle gang who had parked their bikes in the living room, its stripped down kitchen and tiny dark rooms lacked aesthetic appeal. I remember the dismay on our friends’ faces when we brought them by to see our new home before we moved in. They thought we had a hole in our heads and displayed as much enthusiasm as someone who has just received bad news. But we had a vision.

Armed with our vision and youthful energy, Larry and I moved in and got to work painting, wall papering, sewing curtains, adding molding and planting shrubs. Some friends dropped by with several indoor wooden shudders of various sizes which miraculously fit windows throughout the house. As we loved and cared for our little house, it was transformed into a charming big “doll house” that drew expressions of delight from friends and visitors.

A year later, pregnant with our second child, we put our house on the market. It sold in two days for the highest price per square foot of any house in Orange County that week.

What made the difference in the value and appeal of this house? The house took on a new identify because it had new owners. Even our previously dismayed friends loved the transformation. The house had been transformed from an unappealing shelter into an appealing home that provided opportunities for ministering to friends and neighbors.

We too have a new owner. “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

How do you view yourself? Have you embraced your new identity? Your new owner purchased you with a vision and the resources to transform you into an appealing, productive, priceless temple of honor. You are not alone in working out your salvation. God is at work in you! (Phil. 2:12-13)

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