When I wanted to become a better basketball player, I had to practice my jump shot.
When I wanted more knowledge, I had to study more.
When I wanted to lower my blood pressure, I had to exercise and eat right.
When I wanted to take my first steps in my relationship with Jesus, I had to start reading the Bible, praying and getting on His mission.
When I wanted to publish a book, I had to set aside a day each week to write.
When I wanted to pursue a relationship with Emily, I had to prioritize spending time with her.
Any time I’ve wanted to go to a new place in my life, I’ve had to engage new disciplines. I’ve never just drifted to a new, healthier place.
I had to have the “want to,” and then I had to embrace the new disciplines to see the results. That’s how change has always occurred in my life.
You’d be surprised, though, at how many churches want new health and growth, but they’re unwilling to embrace new disciplines. They want to hold on to their same structures, strategies, ministries and people but get different results.
That could be why I’ve never seen a church just naturally drift to health.
Photo Credit: Foto Martien via Compfight cc
