Change

Two nights ago I read another chapter in Pastor James' book about how to change. I must admit that I really didn't want to. This book has been a tough one for me to get through. I've had to face a lot of nasty truths about myself that I have buried for so long. I am just a sinner after all. This does not excuse me to keep on sinning because I know of God's grace. But rather it is a reason for me to turn from sin. The first few chapters of the book were especially tough because they point out what I have been doing wrong for so many years and the fact that I cannot do it on my own. So you can understand my hesitation to read yet another chapter. But after reading chapter 5, I was very encouraged. A weight was lifted from my shoulders when I finished reading and answered my questions at the end of the chapter. I have been trying for so long to end my own slavery to sin. A silly thing I realized when I read this chapter, because Pastor James pointed out that Christ has already done the dirty work (i.e. dying on the cross a miserable death) to release his followers from that bondage. My job is actually quite simple, make the right choice. Christ has released me from the slavery of sin, and I can now live knowing that I do not have to do what He has already done. This does not excuse me to just keep on sinning because God has grace enough to forgive me. It should however be a result of my relationship with Him. The more I put into the relationship, the more my life will change. After all if I do not make an effort to live for Him and with Him, how do I expect Him to show me what to change let alone how to change it. God is great and I am excited about a renewed energy to live for Him.
Well I will sign off with saying this Christmas season I hope everyone remembers what it is really all about and shows compassion and grace to all they come in contact with just as Christ did by leaving His wonderful throne in Heaven to walk with us sinners on December 25th, some 2000 years ago. What love for us He has! Praise Him!