CAPA Corner: Live the Change

“New Year”-there's something almost cathartic about that phrase. It becomes a way, at least mentally, of releasing the old and searching for something new. Then comes January 2nd and the realization that change doesn't exist without…change. It's at this critical juncture that we either knuckle down and seek to live the change or we begin to rationalize why this particular 'new way' is not really right for us.

A wonderful aspect of new life in Jesus is that His presence within initiates change. The challenging news though, is that it's not a 'poof' moment-it's a process. Jesus may say, “come to me all you who are weary and burdened with heavy loads and I'll give you rest.” But He follows that statement with: “Take my yoke.” Meaning, we are to follow Him, actually  living out His words. Change doesn't happen without…change!

Being a follower of Christ requires that we lay aside much of what we've learned within our culture-which is at war with the Spirit-and surrender to the ideas and concepts of our savior. This is hard, you know this, and come the second day of salvation (be it January 2nd or April 2nd) many begin to rationalize how they and have their savior and the world at the same time. Contrary to the many who try, this just isn't possible. We either live the change or not.

Surrender, or live your own way, your choice. But don't fool yourself that you can do both.

Dale Phillips, Comite Baptist Church