“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude” – Maya Angelou.
As we begin to wrap up (pun intended) 2016, this time of year is usually filled with various family events, end of year catch ups and intentional New Year goal setting. Whether 2016 has been filled with exciting new opportunities or turbulent ‘hit home’ experiences, the hopeful anticipation for something new is almost unanimous come 11:59pm on December 31st. The prospect of a more rewarding career, a ‘better’ body (whatever your definition is) or a loving relationship can motivate us all, however:
Too often, we want the results of change, but do not want to change in the process
I’m not saying that we have to change who we are, but I am a firm believer in allowing life experiences the liberty to evolve us. If we’d like to see our lives move from strength to strength, we have to be open to change.
This will often at times remove opinions, people or circumstances we’ve become accustomed to. I get it, people don’t want to loose what they’ve already attained but there really is an art to letting go – the fear of change is really what keeps bound.
In the Bible it talks of God being our Vinedresser and as Children of God we are branches that grow from the vine (John 15:5).
A Vinedresser prunes and nurtures the branches and this allows them to grow. Being connected to God is similar – it means that any branches (aspects in us) that bear bad fruit will be removed, and He will prune those that bear good fruit. This pruning may hurt, cause you to feel alone, disconnect you from your norm, and challenge you to challenge yourself.
Have you heard the statement “Let go, and let God?” From personal experience, change in my life has required letting go, self control, discipline and sacrifice. Exercising these has reminded me that change is a state of mind that starts on the inside.
Romans 12:2 states “Do not conform to the ways of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind”.
We have to realise that change can be promising and positive, and if nothing else, present a learning experience to aid our growth, and often inspire others.
A definition of change is ‘to make or become different’ –
What personal differences would you like to see in 2017?
