April 29, 2019

DAY 5

TRY A FRESH APPROACH

A problem can’t be solved by trying a failed solution over and over. If you are running into roadblocks in your life, perhaps it’s time to consider a completely different approach.

A NEW OUTLOOK

Psychologists note that having hope for the future improves our mood, abilities, and behavior.1 Jesus provides a way to access an everlasting hope: hearing and believing God’s Word (the Bible), developing a love for Christ, changing our ways, telling others we believe Jesus is God’s son, and being baptized for the forgiveness of our sins.

A NEW DIRECTION

God calls us to change our hearts, our minds, and our direction in life.2 God sent His only son Jesus to this earth where He lived as a man, but without sin. Jesus died on a cross bearing the sins of the world. Because of His deity, Jesus rose on the third day, overcame death and went to heaven – giving you the opportunity to one day do the same. 

A NEW YOU

Changing your ways is a great start, but it’s just that – a start. The true power and transformation happens when you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior and are “buried” with Him in baptism (immersion in water)3. You “rise” out of the water to live a new life.4 You get a fresh start – free from sin – and are officially on God’s side.5

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

  • When has a fresh approach helped you solve a problem before?
  • Is any aspect of your life currently in a rut?
  • Are you willing to try things outside your comfort zone?

TEST IT:

Make a positive change today (eat better, remove stress, exercise, etc.) and observe how it impacts your day.

DIG DEEPER:

1) psychologytoday.com/blog/intense-emotions-and-strong-feelings/201106/the-power-hope-and-recognizing-when-its-hopeless  
2) Acts 3:19    3) Colossians 2:12    4) Romans 6:3-4    5) Romans 8:1-2