Every time I look into a mirror I find something else that I want to make better. These days I see the absence of hair, at least hair where I would like more of it to be. I find sags and wrinkles that I want to firm up. Dark spots appear unannounced and unpredictable. My eyes look tired and weak. Some of these deficiencies can be improved, but I think that sometimes it may not be worth the effort at my age.
When I examine my character I also see areas that I want to improve. I see times when I should have been more kind and loving. My self-examination reveals many instances where patience was called for, but I reacted strongly. At other times I was judgmental rather than gentle and meek. Unlike physical changes, changes to my character are always certainly worth the effort.
But how can I achieve these improvements? When I try to do this on my own terms, I have always failed. I need help to change my character. II Corinthians 3:18 says, “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
Real character transformation comes only through God’s Holy Spirit working within us. He will not force these changes upon us. We must ask Him to transform our hearts, minds and spirits and give Him permission to change what should be changed. These changes are sure to be glorious.
Reluctant Retiree 