Behavioral Changes

By Elder Gerald DeForest Tyler

Thanks to all my “Pastor’s Corner” readers, especially you loyal ones who understood the very importance of me getting some necessary rest and relaxation (i.e., vacation time) in December.

While off last month, I found myself with ample praying, reassessment, and re-evaluation time.

And I seized the opportunity to take a very serious look at my career and current life status from the perspective of where I believe God wants me to be in the future.

Now, whether that’s moving mountains as a mighty servant of the Lord, or merely enjoying a hard-earned retirement during my golden years as it were, either one calls for some changes being made.

And I’ve already begun the process of making certain changes deemed to be important in my life.

However, so that this column might be of some greater help to some of you, I want to focus my thinking and writing most specifically on “Behavioral Changes.”

You see, God lead me to make many behavioral changes years and years ago that would both please him as well as help me in this life also. I speak of changes designed and purposed to improve and enhance my spiritual, emotional, and physical growth and development, as well as my overall soundness of mind and well-being.

While many changes were made in my life decades ago, quite recently I further realized the necessity for more changes to be incorporated for my personal good health, sanctity, and endurance.

Therapeutic changes for better health. Tuff-love changes for sanctity of mind. And spiritual changes for contending for the faith and truth of God, regardless of what the status quo Christians may do.

Through dedication and commitment long ago, I purposed in my own heart not to sit on the sidelines nor go up into the bleacher stands and be a mere spectator or observer, but rather, to stay in the game or race and fight to the very end! What about you?

Do you need to make any “Behavioral Changes” in 2012 and going forward? Think about this, the Bible says in Ephesians 6:1-3, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord; for this is right.

Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.”

Jesus also said in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Next week I will expound upon these verses in greater detail.

This is a new year. Make a new start by doing things the right way … God’s way. And should you need help, and you will by the way, God is as close a sincere and earnest prayer. He’ll help you make the necessary “Behavioral Changes” to become a better person.

Have a Happy and Blessed New Year 2012!

Elder Gerald DeForest Tyler is an ordained minister with years of senior pastoral experience.