Therefore, [inheriting] the promise is the outcome of faith and depends [entirely] on faith, in order that it might be given as an act of grace (unmerited favor)….
Early in my Christian walk, I continually worked at trying to change things by myself. But many of the changes that have come about in my life began the day I finally realized that only God could make those changes.
That day, I simply sat in the presence of God, weeping and telling Him, "If You don't change me, Lord, I am never going to be different, because I have done everything anybody can do to change. I have tried everything I know. I have worked every formula. I have rebuked every devil. I have fasted. I have prayed. I have cried. I have begged and pleaded. And none of it has worked. So, Lord, You will have to take me the way I am, and I will have to stay this way forever. If I am ever to be different, You have to change me. I give up."
When I finished talking, the Holy Spirit spoke in my heart: "Good. Now I can finally do something."
I had finally reached the point where I didn't care whether my ministry grew or not. I just wanted some peace. I had finally come to the place where I didn't care whether Dave or my children changed or not. I just wanted some peace. I had finally realized I would have to stop trying to change everything and everyone around me, including myself, and let God handle it if I was ever going to have peace.
You are never going to enjoy the promise of the new life (see Rom. 4:16) Jesus died to give you until you change the way you think. It's not about what you can do—it's about what Jesus has done for you.
Trying to face all the challenges of everyday life can cause you to focus on human works, which rob you of your peace, joy, self-respect, and confidence. Works trap you into always struggling to be better so you will feel better about yourself. But if you try to do things on your own, you will be unable to bring about the positive changes you desire.
Prayer of the Day: Lord, I want to surrender all my efforts to You, but I’ll definitely need Your help. I ask that You transform me by Your power, that I might feel peace in Your presence, amen.
