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!