Today we are closing the door on 2019 and looking forward to 2020. A new year means a fresh start with many choosing to make resolutions to change for the better. The Holy Spirit communicates through the words of the Apostle Paul that I see as an appropriate new year’s and continuous resolution for every follower of Jesus.
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness..” Ephesians 4:22-24
Being a follower of Jesus is not just an outer conformation. It is an inner transformation. When a person is born again, he or she receives a new nature with the potential and purpose of becoming like Jesus in character. This is a process that only happens through a willing partnership with the Holy Spirit. Each person must decide to participate in this transformational process. It is my observation that people change when they know enough they are able to, when they hurt enough to have to, or when they desire enough they want to.
People change when they know enough they are able to. Paul indicates transformation happens through a renewing of the mind. The psalmist wrote, “I have hidden you word in my heart that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:11). It is through the word of God that the Holy Spirit reveals and applies the new way of living according to the principles of the kingdom of God. Jesus said when we know this truth it will set us free to live a changed life (John 8:32).
People change when they hurt enough the have to. “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death” (2 Corinthians 7:10). A patient complained to his doctor, “Doc, it hurts when I do this.” The doctor replies, “Well, then don’t do that.” When the Holy Spirit produces a godly sorrow for the sinful actions and attitudes in our lives, it will lead us to having a change in our thinking and our living.
People change when they desire enough they want to. God has created us with a free will to choose. We can choose to serve ourselves or to serve God. Desire is the catalyst that tips the scales one way or the other. When my desire to please and live for God exceeds my desire to please and live for myself, I will change. The desire for choosing God’s way is developed only by investing in our daily relationship with Him.
If Jesus were to whisper in your heart one thing that He would like to change in you in 2020, what would it be? Then ask yourself, “Do I understand what He is asking? Am I tired of the lack of change in that area? Do I want to please Him in that area more than myself? If the answer is “yes”, you are already on your way to experiencing the best life in 2020!