Steps Necessary to Change Your Life

[Forum Administrator]

6 Steps Necessary to Change Your Life
from the book "Lose It for Life"^* by Steve Arterburn and Dr. Linda Mintle

1. Illumination
When you see the need for change, you have reached illumination.  It is, to be precise, your "light-bulb" moment - the point at which you finally understand your situation in a whole new way.  As Ephesians 5:8 says, You groped your way through that murk once, but no longer.  You're out in the open now.  The bright light of Christ makes your way plain.  So no more stumbling around.  Get on with it!  (MSG).  

2. Inspiration
Once you see the need for change, you must be inspired to make necessary changes.   Ask God for His help and guidance.  Change may be needed in several areas of your life - eating, exercise, dealing with your emotions, or how you think and act.  Also ask God for the courage to change and be transformed into what is God's best for you.  See what you can become and become motivated by the vision.

3. Examination
As we are inspired to make changes, we must take a good hard look at how we measure up to God's standards.   Socrates once said, "An unexamined life is not worth living."  We couldn't agree more.  How does your life measure up to God's standards?  Do you imitate Christ in all you do?  Are you living a holy life?  Are you obedient to the Word?  Whatever your answers are to these questions, the good news is you can begin today to evaluate your life according to God's Word.  No one is perfect, but after examining your life closely, you should be more inclined to want to live in obedience to God's Word.

4. Motivation
Are you motivated to be used by God and to know His purposes for your life?  When you understand that the life God has for you is beyond what you could even imagine, you have reached the step of motivation.  Walking in His truth and staying obedient to His Word are your secret weapons to developing a purpose-driven life.  God doesn't want you immobilized by your weight.  Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you so full of Him that something beyond yourself will happen.

The more we seek the kingdom of God and all His righteousness first, the more used of God we will be.  Colossians 3:12 tells us how to "dress" for this type of success - So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline (MSG).

If you have struggled with motivation for years, perhaps it is time to realize that you just don't have the ability to motivate yourself.  But you can reach out to someone else; you can bring people around you to help coach you and provide you with the motivation you do not possess on your own.  This is what God has in mind when we surround ourselves with a body of believers.

5. Determination
No matter what you've been through already, don't give up.   If you fall down and blow it, get up and try again.  God gives us second chances.  He wants us to succeed.  With Christ, all things are possible.  Stay in the fight and keep reaching for the prize.

6. Realization
Supernatural things can happen.  Persevere until change comes, and be of good courage.  You are a champion because of God's ability to change people.  Your life matters and God has plans for you.  James 1:12 says, Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

^*This book deals with weight loss issues, but the above principles apply to any area of your life where change is desired/necessary.

[Novelist]

I love this topic! It is inspirational and motivational to me.  In my previous years, I have gone through trials and currently facing challenges on today.  However, I know that changes and sacrifices need to be made and I am doing all that I can do to make things happen.  Through out my life's journey, I have encountered unexpected situations and there are some in which I have brought upon myself.  Surely God has been good to me even when I did not change, but now I have made progress and still going strong in Christ.  I admire words of encouragement to get me throughout the day.  With God's power and love, I am able to do what is necessary for my life.  Thank God for his vision for me.

Novelist.