By Dr. DAN ERICKSON
Who are the people who achieve lasting, real change? It is those who are committed daily to be used of God. They aren’t conformed by the world, but transform their world instead.
If you knew that you could become someone who would please God and change your world, would you be that person? If not, why not? What would it take?
James 4:7-10 tells us that if we want to be an agent of change for God, we have to:
· Submit ourselves to God. Let him do his work in you.
· Resist the Devil. Say no to the Devil and watch him scamper.
· Draw near to God. Say yes to God and he will be there in no time.
· Repent. Get serious – really serious – and stop playing games with God.
· Humble ourselves. We must get down on our knees; it is the only way to get on our feet.
These are the keys that will propel us to our potential and destiny.
For years I would continually ask God, “What do you want me to do?” I heard silence! Finally he spoke gently and said, “Stop asking me, ‘What do you want me to do’ and ask me, ‘Who do you want me to become.’ The doing will flow out of the being.’”
There are some paradoxes here. If we are going to become a change agent, then we don’t start by seeking to change our society, laws or institutions. Instead, we seek to change hearts and minds – starting with our own. In addition, we do not cause change simply because we have correct doctrine or attend church. Things start to happen when we see and know Jesus and then copy him. The light in him will become the light in us, which will change our world.
Submit to God, resist the devil, draw near to God, repent, humble yourself and imagine the possibilities in 2011!
