It’s one thing to talk about things that need to happen. It’s quite another to talk about how to make it happen. That’s what the “Getting Practical” posts are for. As I write posts about all kinds of topics and Scriptures, I will occasionally add a linked “Getting Practical” post to go alongside it. These posts will be focused on putting things into action.
The first step on the blueprint to reformation is a return to men of righteous character. I want to give you five practical steps toward that end.
Repent. The power of repentance is not to be underestimated. The Lord will work in a repentant heart. Bring your failures to the Lord and confess your unrighteousness. Do this intentionally. Set aside a specific time alone to be honest with God and yourself. Then pray for Him to begin the change within your heart.
Master the basics. When people want change, they often get overzealous. Foolish as we often are, our tendency is to reach for the biggest, most monumental thing first. That is why we give up and get discouraged. If you want to return to righteous character in your life, you need to start with the basics. I know it is cliche, but Scripture reading, prayer, and church involvement is the first step. You can’t know righteousness without the Word. You will have a hard time knowing the righteous heart of the Father without communing with Him. You need to surround yourself with examples of righteousness lived out. Get these things right first.
Surround yourself with godly people. This one goes one step further than just going to church. Be intentional about putting yourself in positions to listen to and glean from saints who are more spiritually mature. You will begin looking and acting more and more like the company you keep. Does your church have small groups? Men’s fellowship? Some other opportunity? Discipline yourself to be there and participate. You don’t have to go to everything. But get involved in something.
Take intentional steps to bring your life into conformity to God’s Word. This is going to look different for each person because our lives are different. The Bible says we are not to be hearers of the Word only, but also doers. The things you read in God’s Word, determine to do them. Even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard. Many follow God until it hurts. Righteousness requires us to follow God when it hurts. Make the painful decisions. Let your heart be broken. Sever relationships where necessary. Mend relationships where necessary. Do the hard things.
Don’t give up. Go all in with obeying God’s Word. You’re going to fall sometimes. But remember this. When you fall in the midst of following the Lord with all your heart, it is not a disaster. It is sanctification. Keep going, being assured that the work He started in you He is bringing to perfection.