Change is a word frequently discussed but rarely acted on. . .especially by politicians.

Real change. . .lasting change. . .is a change of heart followed by decisive action to do things differently.

The word change is in the King James Bible a total of 23 times while it appears in the Amplified Bible 46 times.  Let’s look at several key scriptures.

Matthew 3:2 in the King James Version says:

“And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

As we’ve taught before, the Greek word for repent is G3340 and it means:

“to change one’s mind, to repent”

This is further clarified in Matthew 3:2 in the Amplified Bible which says:

How do you meet important people?

According to the American Heritage Dictionary, the term VIP is an abbreviation for Very Important Person and is defined as:

“A person of great importance or influence.”

First, you must recognize that you are a VIP already and it is only natural that you should be meeting important people.

That’s right. . .YOU ARE A VIP!

According to Psalm 112:9 in the New Living Translation . . . you are a person of influence.

“They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor.

Your reaction to adversity . . .will determine how you’re viewed.

If you’re viewed as someone who seemingly goes nuts every time something doesn’t go your way…it will be what people believe about you.

If you continually lose it.

. . .not only will others see you that way. . .but more importantly. . .you will begin to believe that’s your typical response and it will become a habit.

In a negative context. . .you become what you believe you will be. . .by how you act and react.

Conversely, if your reactions are governed by applying the fruit of the spirit. . .then you will become what the Word says you will be.

Matthew 9:27-31 in the Message Bible says:

“As Jesus left the house, he was followed by two blind men crying out, “Mercy, Son of David! Mercy on us!” When Jesus got home, the blind men went in with him. Jesus said to them, “Do you really believe I can do this?” They said, “Why, yes, Master!” He touched their eyes and said, “Become what you believe.”

Do you feel like you’ve been going through bad stuff?

Are you convinced that you shouldn’t have to deal with the mess you’re dealing with?

What you’re facing at the moment may stink . . . but that doesn’t necessarily change the circumstances.

Recently, I was reminded of a story that was told by former President Ronald Reagan.

The story concerns twin boys around six.  Each of the boys had developed extreme personalities that worried their parents.  One was a total optimist . . .happy, giggling all the time. . .while the other twin was a total pessimist, crying and whining about everything.

If only. . .I could have gone to college.

If only. . .I graduated from the right college.

If only. . .I could find a job.

If only. . .I could find a better job.

If only. . .I could make more money.