Sam Cooke

I was born by the river... and just like that river I've been running ever since...but I know a change is gonna come. For the past 5 years I've been running. Sometimes chasing after God and other times, running away from his plan for my life. Often, it seems as if I'm running in circles, repeating the same mistakes and learning the hard way. As you know, some lessons come easier than others. Interestingly, the running has increased my stamina. I'm not easily winded or quick to move to the side lines when life throws a curve ball. Instead I stand in the box prepared to swing and pray for the best.

Since making the commitment to blog daily, I feel a change. It's a subtle shift in my thinking, in my habits, in my conversation. Most importantly, I feel content. This morning, Bishop Searight taught from 1 Timothy 6:6, which says "Now godliness with contentment is great gain"(NKJV). The Amplified Bible described contentment as having an 'inward sufficiency'. Paul wrote that he learned to be content in all things (paraphrasing). With each stroke of the key, there is a strengthening of my inner resolve to be better, do better, love better. To know that I can change my life by changing my mind is powerful. To know that my happiness is determined by my thinking is powerful. Indeed, knowledge is power. So, I am moved to ask: what have you done lately that brings you to the place of contentment? 

As I peruse my notes from this morning's service, I think it imperative to share this thought. You must know what to keep and what to throw away when you are transitioning from one level to the next. Some habits will need to be broken. Some friendships placed on pause, if not ended. Some confessions must cease. There are difficult, even drastic, moves that will have to be made so you can live your best life. I believe my latter years will be better than my former years. It is because I am renewing my mind and my daily confessions. Furthermore, I'm able to tell the truth to myself about myself (yeah, I hurt my own feelings). 

Ole Sam had it right, for better or worse, change is gonna come. Are you ready? Pow3rful in Him, Chris