We are the Number One source of our own problems – and this is the good news!
If God were the Number One source of my problems I would not want to contend with an omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent Being on a daily basis to ward off problems.
If Satan was the Number One source of my problems I would not want to contend with an un-seen adversary who “as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
Yes, other people’s poor choices vitally affect us, but even so, I would not want to contend with every one around me who is trying to control me and fit me into their mold.
However, since I am the Number One source of my problems all I have to do is learn to make better choices in life.
We often hear it said, it is my body I can do with it what I choose. This is a half-truth.
We are free to do what we want to do provided no one is there to stop us, but we are not free to choose the consequences of our choices.
During my 12-year involvement in jail and prison ministry I met thousands of men and women behind bars who espoused this philosophy.
Since I create most of the problems in my life by making poor choices, if I learn to make better choices I will avoid having to work through the consequences.
As the New Year is upon us, this is an ideal time to turn over a new leaf.
Earlier in this study we stated the three levels of change as superficial, situational and substantial.
Superficial Change, you may recall, we related to a New Year’s Eve resolution type of change which we determined is usually a temporary change.
Situational Change, we determined was also a temporary change.
To make better choices we need to examine our attitude toward matters that confront us in every area of our daily life.
One rule to follow is: If in doubt – don’t.
Allow God’s Holy Spirit time to help us weigh matters out before making decisions.
Next time: Six Reasons Marriage Fail
Rev. Thomas (Tom) C. Lacy, Advisory Board Member of the Virginia Christian Alliance and Founder and Director, of New Hope Counseling Service.
