Changing my heart (Part 3)

I can not change my heart alone. I do not want anyone to get the wrong idea from parts 1 and 2. No amount of disciplined living- Directing my eyes and feeding on what is good- will ultimately be successful when it comes to finding the Life God made me for-

If I try to do it in isolation.

God works out my heart changes in the context of Community- Through relationships- Honest real relationships with my brothers and sisters in Christ as I discipline my eyes and my appetites.

I need help. Yes- I need help from the Holy Spirit to become what God made me to be, and I find His help most often in the context of Authentic Relationships with others who have committed their lives to Jesus.

A friend recently said to me-

"Charles, I don't believe I have to go to church to be a good person."

At the time I nodded in agreement- and in some sense I still agree.

Going into a church does not make you good any more than sitting in a garage makes you a car.

I get that- I think I understand where my friend is coming from, yet..........................

I am not sure when people say this kind of thing- if what they really mean is........

I don't need a community of believers to be good- I can do it myself.

What a lie- from the father of lies.

If I am ever going to find the Life God has made me for- The Life He sent Jesus to win back for me- I am convinced it will only be found as I pursue vital living relationships with others in His Body.

These others are not my salvation, but they can be an incredible expression of God's Love for me- To lead me to Life.

John 17:21 Jesus prayed, "that they all may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in us so that the world may believe"

Father in Heaven- Lead me to others who love you today. Bring us together in You for the Life You have for us all- Together.

Amen