Nothing frustrates me more than my inability to change the human heart (including myself). I wish there was some sort of magic formula, perfect Sunday talk, or miracle drug (not a suppository though) that could instantly change people. Obviously, there isn't.
Last night, I met w/ an engaged couple from
Great Lakes Church whose hearts have been dramatically changed by the grace of God. If we weren't at a coffee shop, I would have screamed out loud 'cause I was that excited. Their story is simple, but powerful.
A few months ago, this couple felt like God was telling them to change the way they handled their resources so that they could honor Him in their giving. This was a HUGE challenge since he was unemployed and she was simply making an average salary. Regardless, they moved forward in being obedient to what they knew God wanted them to do.
Now here's the kicker. One month ago, something prompted them to evaluate their dating relationship. They were sexually active and living together, but not married. What they did next would be considered by some as incredibly STUPID. Since they had already bought a house together and didn't want to separate until their wedding in September, they decided to get legally married right away. I actually have one of their new invitations. I'm not making this up. Here is what it says,
"As you know, we were planning on getting married over Labor Day Weekend. As you may also know, when XXXXX moved from Pennsylvania, we began living together. We feel led to do what will honor God and we've chosen to get married sooner rather than later." I love the fact that they didn't hide WHY they were changing the date.
Here was my learning from last night: Heart change doesn't happen quickly. However, every step of obedience to God makes our hearts more and more pliable. The more we say "no" to God, the easier it is to harden our hearts. The more we say "yes" to God, the softer our hearts become and the more we change. I ended my conversation w/ this couple by saying, "You're pretty much screwed. God sees how sensitive your hearts are, so He'll keep changing you!" I hope that's the story of my life.