"Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way."
--Psalm 139:23-24(HCSB)
Change. It is a word that we are all familiar with, yet it is often met with trepidation and is not always welcome in our lives. Why? Many of us are creatures of habit. We like our routines. We like familiarity, predictability, and the status quo. Yet, very often inner change is required to catapult us into our destiny.
Real, authentic change requires sincere introspection and self-reflection, and then taking those areas to God in prayer. It means looking at the areas of our hearts that are unpleasant, unattractive, undesirable, unfulfilling, and all the other "uns-". It means there is no blame-shifting or projecting our feelings onto the unsuspecting bystander, or ignoring that there are some real areas of concern in our hearts. It means boldly praying, "God show me, ME."
Introspection takes courage and it takes courage to change. But the benefits far outweigh a perpetual cycle of lies and efforts to self-protect. When we are courageous enough to look at ourselves on a heart level--or even greater, when we are courageous enough to ask God to reveal what is really out work in our hearts, we are on our way to an abundantly, victorious life of freedom and satisfaction!
Reflection:
1. Are there areas in your life that need to change? If so, what are they?
2. Find a quiet place and time when you can pray and meditate on Psalm 139:23-24. What is God showing you about you?
3. As God is revealing areas of your heart, give those areas back to him in prayer. Ask him to lead and guide you. Ask him to replace what you have given him in prayer with his joy, peace, comfort, and love.
--Psalm 139:23-24(HCSB)
Change. It is a word that we are all familiar with, yet it is often met with trepidation and is not always welcome in our lives. Why? Many of us are creatures of habit. We like our routines. We like familiarity, predictability, and the status quo. Yet, very often inner change is required to catapult us into our destiny.
Real, authentic change requires sincere introspection and self-reflection, and then taking those areas to God in prayer. It means looking at the areas of our hearts that are unpleasant, unattractive, undesirable, unfulfilling, and all the other "uns-". It means there is no blame-shifting or projecting our feelings onto the unsuspecting bystander, or ignoring that there are some real areas of concern in our hearts. It means boldly praying, "God show me, ME."
Introspection takes courage and it takes courage to change. But the benefits far outweigh a perpetual cycle of lies and efforts to self-protect. When we are courageous enough to look at ourselves on a heart level--or even greater, when we are courageous enough to ask God to reveal what is really out work in our hearts, we are on our way to an abundantly, victorious life of freedom and satisfaction!
Reflection:
1. Are there areas in your life that need to change? If so, what are they?
2. Find a quiet place and time when you can pray and meditate on Psalm 139:23-24. What is God showing you about you?
3. As God is revealing areas of your heart, give those areas back to him in prayer. Ask him to lead and guide you. Ask him to replace what you have given him in prayer with his joy, peace, comfort, and love.
