Have you ever noticed that the Sunday sale ads are predictable? Right before Thanksgiving, there are ads for kitchen gadgets as well as large serving platters and baking supplies. They know everyone is ready for the holidays and ready to cook. Before Christmas, they push electronics and the latest fashion. In January, it’s storage containers so people will get organized and exercise equipment so everyone can loose the unwanted pounds acquired in November and December. If we buy all the things they push, then why aren’t we an organized, fit group of people?
Yesterday, my pastor made a simple yet profound statement. He said if you want different results, you must do things differently. We all would agree, yet we eat all of the tempting treats of the holiday season and complain because we’ve gained unwanted weight, again.
We all say we want to grow in our walk with the Lord and we may even go so far as to purchase a new Bible or a new book or two for our quiet time. We might spend time pouring over them for a week or two in January and then we slack off. Life seems to get in the way. We are full of good intentions, but our actions don’t support our intentions. My mama always said, “Actions speak louder than words.” So, what do we do?
We know what doesn’t work, because we’ve already done it. Something has to change if we want a different outcome. It has to be realistic or we won’t stick to it for the long haul.
Our God is relational. He created us to be in relationship with Him and with others. Since we know we’re wired to be relational, let’s use it to our benefit.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” We need help. I would suggest we need the help of the Holy Spirit and of fellow believers to be successful in this journey of life.
Find a few friends who love you enough to get in your business. Sit down with them and discuss what you want out of your relationship with Jesus and then write out goals together. They will help you remain realistic and can hold you accountable. It is easier to stick to a plan if you know someone is going to ask you about it. You can do the same for them. You will be amazed at what will happen.
First, you will grow closer as friends, because you’ll be living life together on a whole new level. Second, you will be closer to the Lord as you dedicate time to meet with Him daily. Third, you will grow in your knowledge and understanding of the Word of God. Fourth, you’ll find that your prayer life takes off as you pray for one another’s struggles. God will open the floodgates and bless you abundantly.Are you willing to give it a try? Go ahead….I dare you!