For years, there has been talk of the detrimental effect of car exhaust fumes on nature - as well as the detrimental effect of plastic on the ocean. Yet little has been done to address the issue directly. It is only when plastic bags are no longer available at all and only electric cars can be bought, that a change will be noticed.

 

In our lives, there are also challenges that can stay part of our lives year in and out - too little money in the bank, too much weight around the body, a "below average" marriage, an unhappy work environment, you name it. My question is: If your situation could change, what would you like it to look like? Think for a moment. And two, what have you done to address the challenge directly?

 

To pray for change we need to have a vision in our hearts of what we want a situation to look like if God changes it. This sparks hope. In Hebrews 11: 1 we read: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”  And then we also need the wisdom of God to know what we need to do practically on our part to bring about change. In James 1:5 it says, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.”

 

What do you want your situation to look like, for example: Do you want an extra stream of income so that you no longer have the stress of paying the bills at the end of the month? Do you want to build a healthy, happy marriage where both parties respect each other? Want to see your unbelieving child bow his knee before God? Do you want a work situation where you look forward to going to work in the morning and do not resent going to it?

 

Then my question is: What are we going to do practically to address the challenge directly (because it's easy to do nothing and just complain)? Are we willing to step away from certain habits and implement new disciplines? Are we willing to pray more for our spouses, colleagues, for self-control and even for creativity?

 

Let's make the choice that 2021 will not just be another year with the same challenges. Let us ask God to fill us with His Holy Spirit so that we will be brave enough to do what He leads us to do. He can bring about change when we begin to seek His heart for our situation. After all, he gave his Son so that we could enjoy life in abundance. May this be your best year yet. God bless.

 

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