Most people resist change. In fact, the hardest thing to break is a habit. And of course, the more you repeat something, the stronger the habit becomes - only reinforcing the pattern. When you think about it, it is surprising that anyone can really change. And yet, as pastor, I speak every weekend about the importance of change. But here's what I've learned; all the words in the world cannot produce change unless truth is accepted and courage is applied. When these two align with each other, transformation begins to happen. Someone rightly said, "The truth will set you free, but it will make you miserable first." I strongly agree with this. Most people would love to change without any discomfort. For example, I would love to become more muscular without lifting weights, but - no gain without pain. I would love to become more knowledgeable without reading, but it ain't going to happen. Truth is transforming, and transformation takes courage. To speak on change isn't enough. Instead, we must present truth and pursue courage.
Just today I spoke on the phone with a gentlemen who's entire world is falling apart (marriage, job, parenting, etc.). Instead of speaking to him about how he needs to make changes and adjustments in his life, I instead encouraged him with some timely truths from God's Word and told him that he will need to be strong and courageous as he approaches the hill for battle. After 45 minutes on the phone, I could tell that his entire demeanor had "changed." He was far more positive and he was ready to go out to battle.
Maybe today, like me, you need to focus less on how to change things and more on living in the truth while pursuing courage. God says that the only way that we can worship Him is through spirit and in truth (John 4:24). And friends, that takes courage.
