I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer
I who live, but Christ lives in me. Galatians 2:20
A young woman lived in a home where she was very unhappy. She often complained to her
friends and told them how difficult it was for her to stay there. She blamed her parents
and the other members of her family for her discontent and threatened to move out as soon
as she could afford to be on her own.
One day, though, her face was graced with a happy smile. Gone was her usual glum
expression. Her eyes were sparkling. There was a spring in her step.
When a friend noticed the difference, she exclaimed, "Things must have improved at
home. I'm so glad!" "No," the young woman responded, "I'm the one
who's different!"
That young woman's outlook was brighter and her relationships with others were
transformed. It wasn't because her circumstances had improved, but because she had
experienced a change in her heart.
When we are confronted with irritating situations and we begin to feel sorry for
ourselves, we should ask these questions: Is the trouble really with others? Or could it
be me? As we ask the Lord to fill us with His perfect love, it's amazing how life begins
to look better. Letting God change us is the best way to change our world.
-RWD
Lord, take my life and make it wholly Thine;
Fill my poor heart with Thy great love divine.
Take all my will, my passion, self, and pride;
I now surrender, Lordin me abide.
-Orr
When you stop changing, you stop growing.