Stepping Off the Boat: Hope and Change
I have found in my own life the times I have made true changes are when I am more uncomfortable staying stagnant than facing the unknown.
SOS
John and Wendy show up at my office, and I know right away from their troubled expressions that there is a problem. “Pastor, we don’t know if we are going to make it; we feel so stuck! What do we do?” Coming to realize that we, as humans, have problems, and we need help, is a monumental challenge. Is there hope for change?
Asking for help can be completely humiliating, but also might prove to be life giving. Our natural response is, I will get through this, and I do not want others to see my weaknesses. But in the right context, at the right time, transparency can be a gift. Have you ever noticed how freeing it feels to admit you need help? In transparency, we invite others into our stories who can help and will encourage us by sharing their own personal journey.
However, the old adage is true: We WILL NOT change unless we WANT TO change. I have found in my own life the times I have made true changes are when I am more uncomfortable staying stagnant than facing the unknown. Well, there is good news! Jesus understands and wants us to come to Him for the change that we so desperately need and long for. In Matthew 11:28-29, Jesus says,
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
NASB
Jesus invites us into this process. Notice for a moment, Jesus didn’t say fix yourself or figure everything out and then come to Him for the power. No, He simply said COME, and keep coming! https://waterinthedesert.org/where-do-i-begin/
What now?
Considering this, what yoke have you put on yourself or allowed others to attach to your soul? Jesus is promising rest. Take time to slow down and think of one thing that could change. Dream of what this could look like in a year.
A good book to read: Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers by Dane Ortlund