Cornerstone

Matthew 9:16-17

Resolutions? Change? What is there about a new year that makes us think that something is changing? What makes us think that we will change? We make promises to ourselves that we are going to alter our behavior believing that something magically is different this time. We long for change of significance. Will the change actually take place?

Actually when we go from December 31 into January 1 of the next year we are just going from one minute to the next, one hour to the next, one day to the next. What is changing? Yes, we hang a new calendar on the wall but what has changed? We write a different year on our checks and appointment books but what really has changed?

For real change to take place in your heart and life you need to forget about the new year, the clock and the calendar. Instead realize that change of significance can take place in your life only when you determine to submit completely to God. He will guide you through the process of change that is important to your present and future. Change of significance can take place only as you determine to obey God as He reveals His will and His way through His Word.

So, if you want change of significance to take place in your life stop determining what you want to happen. Stop looking for a formula or a magical time when your desired change will effortlessly come to pass. Rather, look to Jesus and prostrate your will before Him in humble submission seeking His desire for your life.

Dr. Gayle Woods

Philippians 4:1-5 (3) … “And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those…which labored with me in the gospel…”

Some people might call him a workaholic. Maybe so, but I do know one thing: his love for God and the work of God take him far beyond the call of duty. His never ending dedication to God’s work and his determination to do just a little extra for God are a challenge to those who observe his good works.

While others sleep, he works. When others tire or give up he continues on. When others don’t show up for their assignment, he is there…dependable as always. While others are wasting time, avoiding work or spending valuable time with senseless conversation he is busy. His good works are a challenge to those who know him well.

Harold Carpenter is not a superhuman. He gets tired. He gets sick. He is disappointed in people who do not perform well. But Harold does stretch the capacity of his humanity to unbelievable limits as he endeavors to do His best for God. His good works will stand as a monument to his desire to serve God many years after he has gone to heaven. Yes, his works do challenge others.

Dr. Gayle Woods