Monday, July 9, 2012

Changed!

From Boaz Ministries https://www.facebook.com/theboazministries

The experts say it takes 30 days to form a habit, and 30 days to break a habit. In my field of work,  we use that rule to measure the success of a client's ability to sustain improved behaviors.  In 30 days, if there's been a decrease in the problematic behavior, and the client has demonstrated the ability to redirect themselves when the usual "triggers" present, we deem them successful (and the goal has been met). Using certain prescribed behavioral guidelines (practical and practicable), anyone should be able to correct undesirable habits within 30 days.

Then there are individuals who have been able to break a bad habit cold turkey - immediately! Those are the results we normally wish for when we become serious about changing our ways. As believers, we know we struggle with many issues and habits that we say we want God to wipe out of our lives. If we're honest - and I'll speak for myself - we sometimes struggle for years with certain problems (though we pray for deliverance) because we're not truly ready to give up whatever it is. I've had discussions with a few believers who say that some things may take a lifetime to overcome. Others have said that if we're truly surrendered to Christ - the change can happen immediately. (what say you?)

We love to sing the songs about change, deliverance and victory. We like to quote the Bible verses that admonish us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds; that we can become brand new creatures (paraphrase Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 5:17), that we will have the same mind as Christ (paraphrase Philippians 2:5). Yet are we changed?

Maybe we can begin by confessing our need for the very desire to be transformed. That's just being transparent with ourselves and our mate; our God already knows. His power to change us comes by our invitation only. A buddy system, like the ones we engage in when exercising and dieting, can be extremely beneficial for couples. When we are praying with and encouraging one another along the path of spiritual growth and Holy Ghost change - the miracles have NO end! The past is behind us where we no longer dwell! It is very exciting!

We can sing the song of victory because we know we've been changed by the One who empowers us to do all things! Let us look forward to the new things the Lord is doing in our lives, and love one another fiercely!!


"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV

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