But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NKJV)
In our relationships, it’s always tempting to want to change people into what we think they should be. However, our relationships benefit most when we love people the way they are and change ourselves!
God can’t even change people who don’t want to be changed. He’s given each of us the power to choose, and He won’t violate that will. If we don’t want His help, He won’t get involved. As a result, He won’t help you change someone else who doesn’t want to change either—no matter how good your intentions are.
You can influence people. You can love on people and encourage them. But you can’t change them.
Actually, thinking that others need to change involves pride. God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). So, the only person you can change is you.
If you’ve given your life to Christ, you are a new creation. You’ve been changed internally. You now have the nature of God, which empowers you to change your external habits and attitudes. In fact, second Corinthians 3:18 says that as we get to know God better, we become more like him. As you realize who you truly are, you begin to change. And a wonderful thing begins to happen when you change—everything around you begins to change in response.
No one in your life will ever be perfect. Love, accept and forgive as you keep growing with God and you’ll laugh, love and enjoy life with the wonderful people all around you.
Get encouraging devotions from Leon Fontaine in your inbox every morning.
