Changing and growing

I am always thinking of how I can implement change. Whether it is in my workout routine or even different ways to minister to people more effectively and creatively; change is important. Change is a tough word (verb) to take sometimes though because that’s exactly what happens. Webster defines the word change, “to put or take in place of something else; substitute for, replace with or transfer to another of a similar kind.” The truth is most of us do not like change because we like to know what to expect.

Now before I comment on this word any more, let me balance this: there are fundamentals (God’s word, core values, etc.) that we cannot change nor should we try to change. So hear me good when I say “some things should not change.” But when it comes to experiencing something that is more, we need to be willing to change.

I have found that if I will be willing to shake it up a little, I will experience growth, excitement, and life to a whole new level. As a kid growing up and into my young adult life I only ate meat and potatoes (occasionally candy too and lots of bread, which is its own food group). My parents would always say, “You are missing out!” I thought to myself “yeah right!” It’s funny now I am saying the same things to my kids. But as I slowly expanded my taste buds, I found a whole new world of excitement when it comes to eating and trying new things (even eating raw oysters and sushi). I still do not eat broccoli or a couple of other vegetables but I have come a long way.

Even with working out, I have figured out if I do the exact same routine over and over, only those muscles will grow at those angles . So the plan is to create change to experience a different PAIN. Different can always mean growth if we look at it with the right perspective. I believe this parallels with our spiritual walk as well.

Do yourself a favor and change up your routine spiritually. It means making yourself uncomfortable at times to actually grow and not just maintain. I assure you that change in your spiritual walk will shake things up where you do not get into a spiritual rut. Create some change in your life this week. Spend time with your kids, go to the gym, get up early to pray, witness to your co-worker, start tithing, smile intentionally, kiss your spouse for no reason, make a eating plan (and stick with it). Change your LIFE!

Spring forward

Spring is in the air! I love the time change this time of the year but I do not like how dark it is when you wake up! Getting my kids out of bed this morning was not very easy (they said “it’s too dark”). I do like how they have more time to play in the evening, though.

Think about this: If we "spring up" an hour in time, why not "spring up" an hour early in our life to draw closer to the Lord? I will be honest with you--I am not a morning person by nature, but I know that getting up and seeking God is one of the keys to spiritual growth.

Take an opportunity this week to get up a little earlier and find time to seek God. Even if it's for 15 minutes, God will bless it if you give Him that time to start the day. You may even want to try to go to bed a little bit earlier and set yourself up for success. Remember: it is never easy or convenient to go after God. It will always take sacrifice, always mean giving something up, pull you out of your comfort zone, but it is always worth it.

Prayerful Thoughts

Your purpose is tied to your destiny. And your destiny is tied to your destination. Your destination is important because it keeps you anchored to the direction and focus God has called you to. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus he will never leave you nor forsake you . We forget all too much that part of the job of the Holy Spirit is to get you to your destiny. Think about this: the Holy Spirit wants you to get to your destination more than you do!

Let me encourage you to trust God and relax in Him. He is your shield and your strength. God is out in front of your life making sure that you don’t miss your purpose. We do have a part to play and we must do our part but know that God wants you to get there more than you do. When you walk with God you can’t make a mistake. Hold His hand and let Him lead you today.

Breathe

One of the most refreshing times in life is when we force ourselves to sit back and take a deep breath. For many of us this creates "reflection," which is not always a good thing depending on what we reflect on. But when we can reflect on the good rather than the bad, it gives strength to us in the moment. As I write these words I am looking at the ocean. You may say,"Well that's easy for you to say while your staring at such beauty." Yes, it may be! But maybe you needed someone to tell you that today and help you be reminded that taking a deep breath (in the Spirit) can be one the simplest tools for staying in the game for the long haul. Take a DEEP breath!