Saturday, January 26, 2013

Time to Make a Change

Time for a Change
Time for a Change

It's time, time to make a change,
we are the people who can do it.

It's time, time to make a change,
we are His people, we can do it.

I know we can do it,
somebody asked me why
do we have to go through it?

It's just a test of our faith,
what we're living day to day,
we don't know where, we don't know when,
but He's coming back again.
(written by Bernard Bell and Marvin Winans, Carvin Winans, and Teddy Riley)

"And God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years," (Genesis 1:14, NIV)

Everything in life pertaining to change involves time. Time is so important that we often take it for granted. That kettle of lentil/sausage soup requires a precisly timed moment when all the ingredients have merged together to produce an aroma and taste that makes me smile. Catching the bus requires that precise moment when the bus and I are both at the same location. I can't think of any change in my life which doesn't involve time. Can you?

Circumstances change, people change; even time changes, but nothing in this world changes without the presence of time. God established time in the beginning He created the sun, moon and stars. I see this for our good that God created time. He certainly doesn't need time; God is timeless, from everlasting to everlasting.

During a recent trip to Chicago, I learned a childhood friend died. I thought about childhood and some of the things I did. I'm glad that my life changed from what I was into who I am. I know it would not have been possible without the grace of God. Whenever God influences change in my life, it has been paired with time; time to change, time for a change, time I changed. Here are some examples from scripture:

"All creatures look to you to give them their food at the proper time." (Psalm 104:27, NIV)

The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15, NIV)

Time to eat, a time to sleep, a time to change.

It is only when I'm ready for spiritual change that time appears perfectly in synch with me. Of course there's a difference between "wanting to change" and "ready to change". Many want change but lack the commitment needed to actually change. We humans have the tendency to postpone and delay; we procrastinate. We may want to change but the same question haunts me: "why change?"

When I'm ready for spiritual change, I commit to a purpose which calls me. I surrender my independence for dependence; literally asking God for His help. Knowing that God hears, assures me that change will occur. There's a moment in time when you just know, everything is in synch; all things working together. You sense that peace of God in and around you, anxiety has lost its foothold and you have replaced it with contentment.

Right now, somewhere in this world, change is taking place in someone's life. A world of anxiety, shame and pain is being transformed by the power of God's grace to peace, joy and healing. When the love of God inspires you to change, embrace it because, it's time.

written by MTJ


A Note of Thanks: I would just like to say that I appreciate each of you who visit My Thought-filled Journey. Taking time out of your schedule to read a post on this blog is encouraging to me. Many of those who visit, will from time to time leave a comment. Whether a comment is left is not important. What is important, is that you came. I do hope you find encouragement and inspiration in these words. Please know I will pray with you regarding any circumstance you may be facing. Feel free to write me to say "Hello", request prayer, or share what God is doing in your life. I have not said it enough, but thank you for the light of Chist in your life which illuminates the way for us all.

Spiritual Sunday'sNote: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Love your closing line; "When the love of God inspires you to change, embrace it because, it's time."

We can listen for the whisper of the Holy Spirit.

I'm visiting from Spiritual Sundays. Have a blessed weekend.

Unknown said...

Hi MTJ
Yes, we need to give all to Him. I have found that we are not truly independent, for we have changed our dependance on our Pappa God for slavery to the evil one. That is what is so wonderful ... He bought us back so that we can live in dependance upon Him!
Much love
Mia

Pamela said...

I'm not fond of change, but "when the love of God inspires me to change" there is a difference. Maybe that difference is knowing He's with me in the change.

Unknown said...

Great Word MTJ! Being in step with God's timing is EVERYTHING and a wonderful adventure.

It's been a while since I've visited. I hope all is well.

Beverly

Rozalija Baričević said...

It's a great feeling when God touches someone's soul and heart without even tapping you physically. He is that power which had set up my time and invited me to take a next step towards inevitable changes. Thank you, MTJ, each of your words illuminates my soul, my heart and my steps.

Lill said...

The amazing thing about a God inspired call to change...Is that when we finally submit, and surrender to His call, there comes a peace and yes a total contentment as only He can give. Where He guides...He provides.

Anita Johnson said...

I sometimes read a post, think about it and then think I will comment later...usually not a good idea, I run out of TIME. I always enjoy your writings and this time I thought I would let you know!