Since I’m turning 28 today, I thought I’d compile a list of a few things that I’ve learned over the last 28 years. Some of these will be fun and some will be serious. And I’ll spread the list out over the next 5 days or so.
Some of these are more recent revelations but there will be some from my earlier years. Oh, and they are not in any particular order…
1. Marriage is wonderful, contrary to popular sarcasm.
I honestly don’t know what I would do without Hannah. I am so glad that she is my bride. I don’t boast in this, but Hannah and I do have a great relationship and a great marriage.
One thing I’ve learned concerning marriage… in public *always* honor and exalt your spouse. Even stay away from those stupid sarcastic marriage jokes (even if you’re kidding!). You may not realize it, but they do impact your relationship.
2. You can preach the Gospel all you want, but the people still have to make the choice.
As one who preaches on a weekly basis, I’ve come to understand and realize that I can’t make anyone chose Jesus. I just can’t. I can prepare. I can pray. But I can’t force anyone to turn their heart over to Him.
This may seem like a “duh” but it’s hard sometimes to remember that, especially when you’re in a valley.
You do your part, and let Holy Spirit do His.
3. Dr. Pepper is the best soda, but it’s deadly, supposedly.
It’s unfortunate that a lot of the “good things” in life can only be enjoyed occasionally.
But I’m ok with it, because I personally discovered that drinking too much soda can turn you into a whale. I was one.
4. We humans are scared of change. Good or bad.
It truly is amazing how we react to change… and it’s sad when we react negatively to positive change.
I’ve been on “both sides” of change (the pew and the pulpit) within church and it amazes me the way people react to change.
One thing I’ve learned in connection with this is that God’s mercies are new every morning. That means they’re not the same as they were yesterday.
God Himself doesn’t change… but we should.
I don’t want to stay the same… I want God to shake up my life and make me more like Him…
Very good points. I agree with them all, except #3. I’ve mostly given up sodas; the beverage of choice for me is sweet tea. Unfortunately it also needs to be consumed in moderation.
I was just talking with someone recently about how we’re afraid of all change, even the good kind. We’re creatures of habit, and we get stuck in our ruts. But that can really hinder our spiritual growth.