WHY CHANGE?

"For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit." (1 Thessalonians 1:5-6, NAS)

Well, I guess the change Tiger Woods made in his swing is working. You with me?

Twelve majors in 10 years, five wins in a row, and now a changed swing that works better than the original (which, by the way, was no slouch). I can't know for sure that he will surpass Jack Nicklaus' record of 18 majors, but I am sure more change will take place, if that's what Tiger thinks he needs.

For most of us, change is hard. A familiar captivity seems better than an unknown freedom.

Yes, we are Christians, but also sinners. How can we really change, and why? What is it that needs to change in our life to free us to love God more and give us that peace that transcends all understanding?

The folks in Thessalonica were convicted of sin and legalism, and they changed dramatically to accept the incredible message of grace. It must have been very hard to take that step and discount all the legalism that they had lived with and taken pride in for so many years.

Many of these first century Christians were persecuted for the changes they made. Conversion to Christianity invited stonings, beatings, crucifixions, torture, and death. To be a follower often meant giving up everything to follow Christ.

But when you really have faith in what Christ has done for you, you cannot help but change. You realize that what you must give up—even painfully—is far less that what you get in return now and in eternity. When we bet our life on the truth that what Jesus said is true, the change is easier.

What is it that you need to change? Early morning Bible study? A better prayer life? More exercise? Your attitude toward others whom you find it difficult to get along with? Giving that cup of cool water in His name? Or could it be just making Him a priority in your life and loving Him more regardless of what the world thinks?

Satan will attack when we begin to change. He likes to sees us comfortable, selfish, lukewarm, and worldly. He loves to see us in a quagmire of bad habits.

But when we get Home, every change we made for Christ and His Kingdom will be rewarded. And that prize is worth relinquishing the momentary pleasure.

I just made a New Year's resolution in September to change. Will you join me?

--

Randy Wolff

September 6, 2006

Copyright 2006 Links Players International

The Links Daily Devotional appears Monday-Friday at www.linksplayers.com.