Making changes

Repent and believe the good news! (Mark 1:15)

As the years go by, each of us changes—sometimes we are forced to adapt to shifting circumstances, other times we grow dissatisfied with our lives and head off in a different direction. Sometimes these changes have worked out well; other times they have caused regrets. But in every situation, change always brings about a time of stress. And since we don’t like stress, we learn to be afraid of change.

Because we shy away from change, we often put up with a lot of unnecessary pain. How many women put up with a boyfriend’s shabby treatment because they are afraid that they won’t find another person to love them? How many men choose to live with chronic pain rather than go to a doctor because they fear being told that a change in lifestyle is necessary? Many times we put off change until things get so bad that we can no longer endure the pain; being miserable forces us to change.

Change is stressful, but it doesn’t have to be traumatic. People who embrace change do so because they see it as an opportunity for improvement. They look at the options, they consider the possible repercussions, and they choose the path that offers the best chance for a happier tomorrow. People who feel cornered and forced to change don’t always end up better off; in a panic, they choose the easiest or most obvious way out instead of looking for the best path to take. Those who embrace change as an opportunity are more likely to find a better outcome, because their decision-making is not influenced by panic.

God wants to spare us from living with unnecessary pain. He urges us to change before stress drives us into panic mode. Sin is what fills our lives with stress. Sin is what fills our lives with pain. Seen from a distance, sin looks like fun—but when you make sin your close friend, you begin to see through the lies. Casual sex looks like fun—until someone catches a venereal disease or gets pregnant. Methamphetamines look like fun—until you become addicted and spend all your time and money on supporting your habit. Sin promises a good time, but what it delivers is suffering and entrapment.

Jesus urges you to change, to stop letting sin dictate the direction of your life. Jesus wants to free you from ever-worsening misery. He offers forgiveness. He offers a different way to live. He offers continuing life beyond the grave. All He asks is that you trust Him. Changing your life is a scary thought, I know, but Jesus promises to be with you every step of the way; He promises that making the change will be worth it.