Are You Ready to Change Your Ways?
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Matt. 3:2 (NASB)
One of the earmarks of a new year is change. We change our calendars. We change our tax reporting. We often use this occasion to change personal goals or resolve to accomplish certain tasks. Every four years we usually see a change in national leadership. “Change” has become a popular political platform. The word “change” seems to resonate with scores of people around the country.
Change can be good; I usually embrace it! I like living on the edge of innovation and creativity, especially when it comes to sharing the Word of God. And my favorite kind of change is repentance—a decision to change from our old ways and follow Christ!
As we search scripture we find that some things by their nature change:
God has used different messengers throughout history: first He used creation, patriarchs, kings, priests, judges, prophets, His Son, the Holy Spirit, and finally believers like you and me.
Throughout scripture and modern times we see that God has used different methods to connect with His creation: churches, conferences, the written word, tapes, CD’s, DVD’s, television, radio, and the Internet are all methods that can project a message of grace and love.
Unfortunately, many of the changes mankind has made are not good.
To be a follower of Christ we must live in a changing world that requires us to be consistent in our theology while being flexible in how we present the message. The Apostle Paul warned us, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Rom. 12:2a.
I am so thankful that no matter how the times change, God’s truths remain the same:
The message God provides throughout scripture has never changed: God so loved the world that He breathed life into each one of us and gave us a Redeemer—Christ Jesus.
The mandate God gave to all His children remains the same: God wants relationship with His creation.
The model God sent for a purpose-filled life remains the same: His Son Jesus Christ.
While God is constant, He is the creator of change. When we embrace His message, pursue His mandate, and choose to follow His model, Jesus Christ, we are changed forever! Hallelujah!
The Power of Truth:
- “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever.” Heb. 13:8
- “Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.” Isa. 64:8
Suggestion for Prayer:
Give God control over your life. Ask Him to change you, and mold you into the person He intended you to be, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank Him for His eternal truths, His promises, and His everlasting love.