Some change is good, necessary, productive and even anticipated. Other is bad, needless, fruitless and dreaded. Many look forward to the changes of seasons. The late summer heat gives way to cooler nights. The trees begin to display their autumn foliage and the leaves begin to glide through the air in their lazy journey to the earth. The spring brings rebirth and renewal. Warmer days, from the bone chilling air of winter, that bring with it green grass and flowers that burst forth from dormancy.
Politicians promise it, but few deliver the kind that we desire and need. Sounds like they have something in common with Satan and his angels. He lies, deceives, tempts, depresses, and all the time leaving us in a state of confusion and desperation. Seeking changes that will bring us pleasure and peace, but never able to deliver. Or else he convinces us that everything is okay and there is no need for change. And sadly, we believe him and remain lost; we listen to the one who hates us and wants us to die, and continue wallowing in the mire of sin, separated from God who truly loves us.
The Bible has several things to say about change. The logic is simple and is as beautiful as the fall colors that thrill us and the sun and flowers that warm us in the spring. The journey though is not easy.
First of all consider that the Bible says that God does “not” change! James 1:17 says that, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” In Malachi 3:6 we read, “For I am the LORD, I do not change;” and in Hebrews 13:8 the inspired writer says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
Now considering our sins and the fact that we all have sinned and fallen short of His glory (Romans 3:23); taking into account the love of God (John 3:16); and in view of the command that we repent of those sins, obey Him and serve Him faithfully (Acts 17:30; Hebrews 5:8-9; Revelation 2:10), who should be changing? Bearing in mind that there is a judgment day coming when God will destroy the heavens and the earth Peter asks, “…what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness?” (2 Peter 3:11).
Thirdly we need to take into account the fact that we are all going to be changed 1 Corinthians 15:51-52)! The vast majority will be changed, judged and separated from the love of God for eternity to suffer with that same devil who is trying to convince you not to change your ways today. The few remaining: the obedient and faithful will receive a new body and be united with The One in eternity who loves us more than we can comprehend.
What changes do you need to make in your life? Do you need to become a Christian? Repent of your sins, confess the sweet name of Jesus and be buried with Him in baptism. Do it today!
Do you need to come back to God? Have you forsaken Him? Confess that and repent. We will be happy to pray with you and for you and do all we can to love you and help you get to heaven.
Do you need to identify yourself with a faithful, loving, sound, growing and active congregation of the Lord’s people? Leaving one family for another is never easy, but if it will help you and the one’s you love go to heaven, is it worth it?
Whatever your need is. Make it known today while you still have a chance and then Be Faithful!