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A Morning View Near the Wood Stove

I notice that there is much finger pointing in the world. 
Although I have my beliefs and ways I believe are "right" I cannot change another by finger pointing.

As a pastor I cannot change you.
As a teacher, friend, relative, employer, employee.........you fill in the blank and in the end we cannot change another person. I do not understand trying to force another person to be something without them realizing the need for change in their life. I cannot force the love and grace of Jesus Christ on anyone. I can only be a conduit of the Holy Spirit to another.

The only person I have an influence of change over is me.
I must live a life in pursuit of holiness with God. 
I can be a part of a change in me. 

What will happen when I change is that the others in my life can see and experience change in their life. The key to changing the finger pointing in the world is to take care of my own house. I must focus on me and allow others to seek the same change in their life. 

Think about the last time you forced someone to change. How did that work out? 
Think about the last time you had authentic change in your life? How did that work out? 
I need to get my house in order while you get your house in order. Then perhaps the rest of the world would desire what is in our house.

“My son, pay attention to what I say;

    turn your ear to my words.

Do not let them out of your sight,

    keep them within your heart;

   for they are life to those who find them

    and health to one’s whole body.

Above all else, guard your heart,

    for everything you do flows from it.

Keep your mouth free of perversity;

    keep corrupt talk far from your lips.

Let your eyes look straight ahead;

    fix your gaze directly before you.

Give careful thought to the paths for your feet

    and be steadfast in all your ways.

Do not turn to the right or the left;

    keep your foot from evil.”

                                       - Proverbs 4:20-27


Peace,

PB

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