In life, there are always problems to solve. We’re constantly working through something, trying to figure something out, or desiring some type of change. Though we are not in complete control of life, we do play a huge role in the lives that we live. I remember a few years back when God showed me that I was operating from a victim mentality. You know, the mindset where you feel that this is just it and there’s nothing I can do about it. Well, I’m here to share with you today, that when you are seeking change in your life: Do something about it.
As Christians, the things that we do when seeking change, will be different than the way others approach change.
Though we are seeking change, we know that we are not to go out and create our own destiny.
This is how our actions will differ from those who are not in Christ. The message of the world is to create your own destiny, create the life you desire, or do you. However, in Christ, we have truths such as: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10).
This truth allows us to realize that our destinies are already ordained. Our job is to discover what has already been predestined.
Our lives are not our own (I Corinthians 6:19).
So, as we go about seeking change in our lives, we must go about changing things in a way that acknowledges God’s sovereignty in our lives. Below are 5 tips to consider:
1. Pray
When seeking change in our lives, we do not want to get into a lot of action and busyness without prayer. Prayer is when we talk to God and share our hearts with Him about our concerns, our struggles, our desires. God, being our perfect, Heavenly Father, desires us to talk to Him about everything.
2. Read
Though prayer is extremely important, we do not want to solely rely on prayer when seeking change, which is output. We want to also focus on input- the taking in of God’s Word. This is so important, as it helps us to understand God, His ways, and His works. His Word is our way of getting to know Him. We do not want to overly rely on our own understanding, which is so imperfect and limited. We cry out to God and then we listen to Him, which not only comforts us, but it grows us.
Reading God’s Word gives us His perspective on life. I’m reminded of Proverbs 3:5-7:
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.”
3. Grow
Now, the previous two steps will inevitably lead to growth; but, I wanted to list this as a tip so that we can be mindful to be in a position of growth. So often, when seeking change, we are looking outwardly, while failing to look inwardly. As I reflect over the changes that have occurred in my life, I see how growth was necessary. As my life changed, so did I. Actually, growth most often preceded change.
4. Work
Change requires work. If you think about it, the state that you are currently in is a result of previous choices. Therefore, when we are seeking change in our lives, we must be prepared to work and do things differently. Change is hard. Growth is hard. Progressing is hard. So, whatever change we are desiring to see, we must be willing to work for it. As the saying goes, anything worth having won’t come easy. The easy things often have little value, while the worthy things will require us to work. As you are seeking change in your life, pray for the mind to work for it.
5. Wait
Lastly, as we are seeking change in our lives, as Christians, we know that we are not in complete control. This awareness will help us to wait. When seeking change in our lives, we do what we can do, while we wait and trust God to do what only He can do. While waiting, we will be continually cycling through the previous steps. Change is a continual process of: praying, reading, growing, working, and waiting.
Change gets hard when we feel that we are doing all the right things, but not seeing the results that we are after. This is where most people abort the process and go back to what’s familiar and comfortable. Don’t do that. When change doesn’t seem to be happening as quickly as you like, take the time to read more of God’s Word. Consider how He has worked in the lives of others. Read David’s story and reflect upon all He had to go through after being anointed to be king. Joseph, Moses, and others can also provide encouragement to us, as we await upon changes to take place in our lives.
As you are desiring change in your life, don’t play the victim, yet, don’t assume the position of control. Focus on doing your part to uncover God’s will for your life. Allow God to do what only He can do, while He directs you step by step. Whatever you do, don’t give up and don’t go back to what you know is not His best for you.
With love,
Read Embrace the Changes: Success = Change
