It's Time to Change Your Heart About What's Happening in the World
There's no hiding it or denying it. We're living in some crazy times right now. People are full of more hate and division than ever before. All of the efforts that political leaders are attempting to take to fix things are only seeming to make things worse. Amidst crazy time the world is facing, perhaps the answer is found within. If there's one thing I know to be true, it's that sometimes God doesn't change your situation because He is trying to change your heart. (That's worth repeating...)
Listen to the Good Christian Podcast episode about this post:"3 Ways to Change Your Heart Despite Your Circumstances"
Sometimes God doesn't change your situation because He is trying to change your heart.
Many of us pray for God to change the situation that we are facing, but I'm learning that this is often the wrong request to present to God. Many of us are unable to see that it may be necessary for us to go through these situations for God to transform us into who we need to be to impact the world around us. Maybe, just maybe, what we actually need to do is change our hearts instead of looking to political and church leaders to "fix the problems."
Related Post: It doesn’t require faith when we have control of the situation
Although I'm the one writing about this topic today, this has not been easy for me. I've been more angry and bitter than ever before toward both the church and political leaders. "How could they let things get so bad and far from God?" (I hope I'm not alone!)Here's the thing, I've realized that I'm the one with the problem. As a follower of Jesus, my purpose is to keep the right heart in all situations and circumstances.
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
This hasn't been easy for me. (Oh wait, did I already say that?) When I reflected and asked God for help while navigating the changes that I need to make in my own heart. He brought the story of Job to my mind.Throughout the book of Job, the theme stays the same. Job was tested by God. He was left in an unpleasant situation where God would not respond to him. Job remained faithful throughout this entire book of the bible and was more blessed in the latter part of his life. (Job 42 NIV)I don't know what your thoughts and feelings are about what the world is facing right now, but I want to challenge you to stop contributing to the madness of attempting to voice your opinions, thoughts, and feelings in the matter, instead, look within. Perhaps there's something you can do to change your heart. It's time for you to let God change your heart!I have learned to grasp this concept in my own life. I have seen my walk with God excel like never before. I've learned to let go of the false sense of control that I believe I have. I've learned to trust God and be joyful no matter what the world has going on around me. Although this is contrary to how the world tells us to ask, but living this way, I've also excelled in many areas of my life and have made a more significant difference in the lives of other people.Here's what I've found to be true through all of the racism, different political views and even COVID-19,
God blesses us when we allow Him to change our hearts!
Here are three ways to begin allowing God to change your heart:#1. Fast.A practical way to begin letting God change your heart is by fasting. I've been fasting all summer (Not food, don't worry, I'm still here haha) I encourage you to pray about doing the same. Perhaps it's time for you to avoid social media and mainstream media like God has called me to do during this fast.#2. Let go of control.First off, you don't have control anyway. No matter how bitter, mad, or loud you get, you do not have any control over the world. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."#3. Pray.Prayer moves mountains. Through the power of prayer, I've seen more situations changed in my life and in the lives of those around me than through anything else. Are you praying for the world around you? More importantly, are you praying for your own heart? Think about this one.By following these three ways to allow God to change your heart, you'll begin feeling less lost, confused, and angry during these times the world is facing. It's time to start trusting God like you never have before! Begin allowing God to change your heart today!