Each of us has the ability to improve our lives.
But why is it so hard for us to change?
One daunting aspect of the human condition is that we can go years, sometimes a lifetime, and repeatedly choose to not make positive changes in our lives that we know we should make.
Sometimes, those decisions to do nothing–and doing nothing IS a decision; it is a choice to keep things the same way–are the ones which shape our future the most.
Everyone Has Issues
We may believe our issues are too hard to face, or that no one else has made the mistakes we have made. We become discouraged by people who seem to be blissfully cruising through life with no issues at all. But there is another aspect of the human condition we need to realize.
Everybody has issues!
The difference between people is whether or not they have become self-aware enough to recognize their issues and deal with them in a positive manner.
“Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.” (Leo Tolstoy)
Changing Our Life
How, then, do we go about improving things?
From the book STEPS: A Daily Journey to a Better Life, the step of Transformation challenges us to: “Humbly admit your mistakes and make positive changes in your life.”
If we admit our wrongdoings, at least to God, and commit to changing our life as best we can, we will move in a positive direction. If we make the same mistakes over and over, we will keep getting the same negative results.
God is On Our Side
One of the most amazing things about God is his patience with us. We can screw up over and over, and over and over, and yet he still loves us and wants what is best for us.
We can avoid a great deal of pain and guilt in life by learning to recognize our mistakes and humbly confessing them. Because God will be there for us when we do.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Once we understand God is on our side, we will realize he has always been there for us, even when we made mistakes in the past. He has never given up on us, and he wants what is best for us.
He knows we aren’t perfect. No one is, but he loves us anyway.
And he is waiting.
“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:29-30)
Our lives can improve, and God is there to help.
But it’s up to us to change.
Question: What is one thing you need to change?
Action: Commit to at least one action you will take to improve your life in that area.
Photo by tracyshaun 
Photo by MMcDonough Photo by symphony of love
