Time for a TurnaroundSample

WILLINGNESS

Most of us know the story of Moses and the Red Sea. Moses was leading the Israelites out of Egypt and to the Promised Land when he reached the Red Sea, with Pharaoh’s army in close pursuit. They thought they were trapped between the water and the enemy, but Moses stretched out his hand and the sea parted, leaving safe passage for his people. We often refer back to this story as an example of God saving His people. But the Red Sea did not part until Moses stretched his hand out. 

God wants us to respond. Like Moses, if I take one step forward, God responds by carrying me ten steps. I do one thing to show my willingness to make a change, and God shows up for me. 

There’s a difference between wanting to change and being willing; willingness incites action. We might want to be physically stronger or have a slimmer waistline, but it won’t happen if we aren’t willing to change something or do something different. You have to put forth action to see the results, and if you want a change in your life, you have to be willing to make a change. Intention doesn't yield results; it's the pursuit and the followthrough. 

One definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. If you want something different, you have to do something different. We have to first decide what area of our lives is causing the most pain so we can partner with God in doing something different.

All it takes is small steps. It's not like New Year's Resolutions, where you buy an expensive gym membership, start off strong on day 1, and then never go back after experiencing the pain of hitting it too hard. Small changes bring great results, when done consistently. Maybe it's just eliminating the tablespoon of cream in your coffee every morning. Maybe it's just saving a percentage of your paycheck this week, and then being consistent and persistent in that small change every week. 

The Israelites probably thought the Red Sea looked daunting. They probably thought it would be impossible to cross the whole thing. But Moses knew to make one small action, and God split an entire sea. When we are willing to consistently take small steps towards changing our lives, God opens up a path for us, helping us do the "impossible."

Reflection:

What is your Red Sea? Is it your relationships? Your finances? Your health? What is causing you the most pain in your life? Consider the small steps you could take that would give you the results you’re willing to pursue. If you don’t know, ask God!