Greasing the Wheels of Change - Part 2

God intends for change to be a normal progression in life. Where change is not welcomed, stagnation sets in or a crisis disrupts the status quo. Fear and anxiety are opponents of change, but often initiate a crisis. The time between a crisis and the occurrence of a change can be inundated with pain and apprehension.

As difficult as it to be stuck in the middle of a crisis, a clear picture may evolve in this in-between state that defines changes needing to be made. Crises prompt people to confess their sins, repent, make promises to God and renew their faith. A crisis presents an opportunity to begin a new chapter in life.

In a personal statement, the Apostle Paul confesses that his carnal self is dying so a new spiritual life in Christ Jesus can thrive and grow. A crisis can be perplexing, but God is willing to open his heart and hands to give strength and faith to sustain believers in the depths of a crisis. For that, let us praise God and give thanks to him.  

Problems to Solve, Questions to Ponder - Part 3

The concept of change raises questions like, what conditions prepare a person for change? What indicates a readiness to alter one’s life and surroundings? The promise for a hopeful future motivates immigrants to leave home and face uncertainties in a new country. Signposts for change are loneliness, unhappiness, unemployment and discontent.

A positive incentive for change is hope, which liberates people from resistance and a rigid dependency on what is known to go in search of something better. Hope activates courage to let go of the familiar for the possibility of obtaining fulfillment in the future.

Hope demands some degree of predictability by seeking creative ways to activate change. Hope connects to a powerful drive that believes change is doable. Abraham could only imagine what God had in mind for him when God told him to leave what was familiar and go discover a new future. Abraham believed God, and it was regarded as righteousness on his part. We can make that choice.