Children eagerly look forward to Christmas. If they could, they would speed time up so Christmas would come sooner. Their anticipation is fueled by the anticipation of gifts. They may even change their behavior for the better, thinking that they will receive nicer gifts.
Most of us want to change our lives for the better, as well. We want to be kinder and more loving. Some of us want to become more patient and caring toward others. We set internal standards for these changes and do things to prove we have changed. But, somehow, we always revert back to our old behaviors. Standards and efforts are not enough.
Galatians 5:5 says, “For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness.” This verse explains that righteous living does not come through rules and good works. We must, instead, trust God to make these changes in us through His Spirit by faith. He alone can transform us, by the power of the Spirit working in us. Then we will have hope of living righteously, making the changes that we eagerly await.
Reluctant Retiree 