“Progress is a nice word. But change is its motivator. And change has its enemies.” – Robert Kennedy
People don’t like when you change. It makes them uncomfortable. The enemy surfaces when you don’t do what you used to do or think and act like you once did. Change requires power and self-constraint. That power comes from you making the decision to do something different and grow from it. Any kind of change is a formidable challenge for most people. Yet the Lord asks us to change from our old ways and do things His way. Not an easy task! Most people would deny this request because it will require them to become uncomfortable with what is about to take place. Yet God clearly says, “Put off … the old man, … and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and… put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Eph. 4:22-24) “Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Rom. 12:2) If we were to be obedient, we would understand that change is good and it is for our good that we submit to it.
In our daily world, especially in this hectic, instant access global culture where technology changes by the minute, you have to be adapting constantly because change is inevitable. For those who are unprepared, you will find reluctance and a fear of learning something new. It will not only be displayed in your actions, but in your attitude as well. Everything about people who fear change becomes negative. In essence, change pulls one in diverse directions and the older you get the less elastic you become. You get in the habit of doing things a certain way and become less tolerant to external demands that may alter our lifestyle. Modifying learned responses to habitual routine tasks often causes stress and anxiety, especially in older persons. Therefore, instead of conforming to the change, most give up and throw in the towel without ever knowing the residual effects that change could deliver. When the Lord requires you to change your lifestyle, He not only gives you the power to do so, but He enables the change to result in a much more powerful you! Some people say they love the Lord but refuse to make a commitment because they’re just not “ready” yet! If only they realized that with the Lord in agreeance, everything will go smoothly, peacefully and painlessly if they are obedient. If your love is divinely purposed on and in Him, it will prompt you to make adjustments. Secondly, He has given you the Holy Spirit to be your comforter, counselor and help. (John 14:26). Therefore, whom or what shall you fear? All you need to do is lay your life before Him and ask Him to fashion you into a precious vessel for His use. “Use me Lord” … You cannot change on your own as it will be more complicated and less understandable. He is the potter; you are the clay. The clay just lies there as a lifeless lump on the potter’s wheel while the master twists and turns it until it is molded just right. All that is required of you is a willingness to want to be like Him. You must be teachable and coachable in order to receive His direction.
The more readily you give yourself fully to Him, the more instant the transformation begins to take place. It all starts in your mind. Once you align your thoughts with those of Christ and understand His Word and His ways, then all the old habits and mindsets fall by the wayside. Suddenly they don’t seem so important anymore and you will notice your ways becoming like His. When we are in the world, the mind becomes alienated from God through ignorance and blindness. The chitter chatter of man and the worldly noise becomes loud. This will prompt you to do things your own way. Once you know the truth, you will want to put off all the voices to rest and let your mind be washed by the Word. I pray that you will be strengthened with His Almighty Spirit in your inner soul. May Christ dwell in your heart by faith and in your thoughts by hearing. May you be rooted and grounded in love. May you come to comprehend His love and be filled with all the fullness of God! Yes! He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to His Power that works within us! (Eph. 3:16-20)
I am Nichelle Womack! As a people building, life transition strategist, I specialize in helping you reach your greatest potential through self-reliance and internal motivation. I provide inspiration through community speaking engagements, one on one consultation and group/team training. Positive thoughts and language are my fuel for energy and my desire to help you find yours. If you are interested in a free 15 minute session of coaching, contact me @ diversecc@gmail.com. Looking for more great life tips, check out “The Master Tip Manual for Personal Success” @http://amzn.to/1bWA7Vw . Many blessings and much success to you!! Check out my websites @ www.2ExcelWithNichelle.com and www.diversecc.com. Connect with me on Twitter and Periscope @DiverseConnect.