Change Can Happen for You! (1)

‘And He…said, “Behold, I make all things new...”’ Revelation 21:5 KJV

The Bible’s story is one of change from Genesis, the book of ‘beginnings’, to Revelation, where God says: ‘Behold, I make all things new.’ Whatever your situation today, change is possible through Him. However often you’ve repented, confessed and tried changing, God can change what you can’t—and make it last. But change requires understanding certain principles. Let’s look at them: (1) You don’t need to change others in order to change your life. ‘I’d be happier if he’d stop…’ ‘Things won’t improve for me till she…’ Such beliefs make you focus on the problem and not the solution, ignore realistic options and feed depression. ‘Each person should judge his own actions and not compare himself with others.’ (Galatians 6:4 NCV) Instead of trying to change others, which only produces resistance and resentment, let God show you what you need to do differently to improve your handling of the problem. When you stop doing what doesn’t work and change your reactions to the problem, others often change spontaneously. (2) True change begins by addressing your relationship with God. Bitterness and frustration over problems just result in distancing from God, leaving you to handle the issue in your own strength. Surrendering to Him changes you fundamentally, challenging pride, envy, resentment, fear, dishonesty etc—characteristics of poor change management. ‘Let us search out and examine our ways, and turn back to the Lord.’ (Lamentations 3:40 NKJV) With ‘our lives under God’, we’re more honest, self–aware, able to perceive realistically; we’re respectful, and prepared to become God’s change agents.