Have you ever felt stuck, as if you’re not achieving the spiritual or emotional growth you desire? Or perhaps you’re struggling with physical goals, like managing your weight through better eating habits or more exercise. No matter the nature of our stagnation, it’s frustrating when progress seems just out of reach. Yet, God calls us to move forward, to overcome these barriers and discover the joy and freedom waiting for us. Here’s how you can begin to MOVE forward in every area of your life:
M – Make Up Your Mind to Change
Ephesians 4:22-24 teaches us to “put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” Deciding to change is the first, essential step. This requires a profound shift in mindset, an intentional decision to improve today, not tomorrow. Change begins in the mind, and as believers, we are equipped with the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16), empowering us to rise above the enemy’s lies.
O – Organize Your Lifestyle and Habits
James 1:22-25 emphasizes the importance of being doers of the Word, not just listeners. This means re-evaluating and organizing our habits and lifestyle to align with our new direction. It’s about setting practical, achievable goals and breaking old habits that no longer serve us. Adjusting our daily actions to reflect our new priorities is crucial for lasting change.
V – Vocalize Your Intent
According to Hebrews 10:24, we should consider how to stir up one another to love and good works. Sharing your goals with trustworthy friends and family can create a supportive network, crucial for maintaining accountability. Speaking your intentions aloud not only solidifies your commitment but also opens you up to receive encouragement and constructive feedback. This network becomes a vital resource, offering encouragement during moments of doubt or setback.
E – Energize Your Efforts with Spiritual Practices
Romans 1:17 reminds us that “the righteous shall live by faith.” To sustain change, integrate daily spiritual practices like prayer and Bible reading. These disciplines connect us to God, renewing our strength and resolve each day. Additionally, regular fellowship with other believers provides a community of support, enabling mutual encouragement and shared growth.
Implementing these steps creates a robust framework for personal development. By making a decisive choice to change, organizing our habits, vocalizing our goals, and energizing our efforts through spiritual discipline, we set ourselves on a path toward not just temporary adjustments but transformative, lasting growth. In moving forward, we embrace the full life that God has promised us, one marked by continuous learning and spiritual enrichment.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Faith Activist
Featured Image by Ruffa Jane Reyes on Unsplash
