Stop-and-Start - God's Change Plan

Tony Morgan has a series of "stop and start" articles that I have been following.  It is a good reminder that God is not a “stop” God.  He is a “change” God.  Ephesians 4 reminds us that you don’t change by stopping, but rather by putting on or starting something different.  For instance it says a liar is still a liar even when he stops lying.  He is only changed when he starts telling the truth.  Likewise, a thief hasn't changed when he stops stealing.  He is changed when he starts giving.

My big stop/start this year is: Stop worrying and start worshiping. I love the way people break into worship in the midst of the horrors of the Book of Revelation. It is because they see things differently.  The things are the same for everyone, but taking time to consider what is happening in the context of God is what leads to worship.  The church should be seen as a people of worship, not a people of worry.

Some of the other stop and start things could be: Stop comparing and start sharing.  Stop saying negative things and start saying positive things.  Stop watching television and start walking in the neighborhood. Stop drinking soda and start drinking water.

Things usually don't change because we stop doing something.  Change comes when we start doing what we ought to be doing.  What kind of things do you need to stop and start this year?

By the way, this year I am committed to stop watching pastors and churches struggle and to start helping them refocus on God's purposes and power in their lives.  If you want to join me in this effort check out this website and contact me.