It seems the older I get the more I talk. I don’t remember talking this much just a few years ago but now, it’s become a habit or maybe it’s who I’ve become. I have opinions, feelings & emotions on just about everything. I think I try but it’s usually too late and I’ve said something and can’t get it back. We just finished our new series titled: New Year/New You and I keep thinking it’s more like New Year/Same You. Do You ever feel that way?
Those questions still ring in my ears: What’s the plan?, What’s at the end of my fork?, What’s my reaction? It’s a lot easier to give information than it is to follow!
I believe in God’s Word, I believe it’s lasting and I believe it gives me the advice & instructions I need but I still get in the way. Words matter and nothing matters more than the words I can find when I read or listen to God’s word. Life can feel long, lonely and difficult at times. It changes and creates opportunities for each of us. There will be ups and downs along the way and a new year doesn’t mean the old year goes away (COVID!!) but if we commit to believing that words matter, if we continue to lean in and listen to what we read and hear, change will happen.
I would think the older I get the more I listen but I keep living and responding in the opposite way. I keep talking and if I’m not careful it is who I have become. God’s word reminds me in Galatians 5:17 For the flesh (mind-will-emotions) desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want.
I want to be better and if change is going to happen I gotta believe in the words I read because words matter. After reading and listening, the change I am seeking just may be the battle of my lifetime.
Will you commit with me to seek change? Will you commit to trusing His word and completely relying on Him? When we do, He will make a difference in our lives. We all may end up listening more than we speak.
Until we ALL see each other again.
Pastor Chad