Quintus Heine

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 12:2

Sometimes we want to get rid of bad habits in life, but we are afraid of change. We want to cling to our old habits because they are familiar to us, though we know they’re not right. We want to cling to the sin that brings us unhappiness. We realise we must allow God to renew our lives, but we are afraid of the unknown. This reminds me of the following story: On 31 January 1829 the governor of New York, Martin Van Buren, allegedly wrote a very urgent letter to President Jackson, the president of the United States at the time:

"Dear President, The canal system in our country is threatened by the possibility of a new form of transport, namely, trains. The government must urgently stop these efforts to change the transport system for the following reasons: If boats are replaced by trains, it will result in severe unemployment. Captains, cooks, drivers, servants and mechanics will be left without livelihoods, not to mention the numerous farmers now employed in growing hay for the horses. The boat builders will be left without work. Canal boats are absolutely essential for the defense of the United States if we go to war with England. The Erie Canal will be the only way to transport weapons. It is essential to modern warfare.

The biggest reason, Mr President, is that railroad carriages are pulled at the tremendous speed of fifteen miles per hour by ‘engines’, which, in addition to endangering life and limb of passengers, roar and snort their way through the countryside, setting fire to crops, scaring the livestock and frightening women and children. The Almighty certainly never intended that people should travel at breakneck speed.

Regards, Martin Van Buren (Governor of New York).

Do not resist positive change in your life because you're afraid of change. People refuse to change because the familiar is easier than the unknown. Therefore they remain satisfied with sin and old habits in their lives. They do not realise that a better and more fulfilling life awaits them. This is what Jesus wants for us. He changed our way of life and made a new life possible.  He gave his life so that the world can be changed and start anew. Today, open your life to the Lord so he can change your life’s season and thoughts, enabling you to live a new and wonderful life! It is always worthwhile making a new start!

Prayer: Lord, help me not to be afraid of changes that lead me to a better, new life with you. Amen.