We change just by knowing Jesus. When we ask Jesus to be our Savior, HE is “All In”, but it usually takes us more time to change. Here is a story of a definite intervention that was a s-l-o-w change.
Sports Illustrated Magazine had an annual swimsuit issue. Twenty years ago, or so, they promoted a video of all the new “beach wear”. I decided to get a video for my husband, who had just turned 60. I remember giggling with the person on the phone that my husband had a “healthy heart”, so I was sure it was safe to give it to him.
Upon arrival, I secretly opened the video and reviewed it — just to see how stimulating it would be for the “old fella”. I was shocked! It was naked women in sexual activities singly and with each other! However, the more I watched, the more interested I was. I decided I didn’t want my husband to engage in this type of material. We were having problems with intimacy, but I was afraid that this might send him in the wrong direction. However…I was definitely interested. Twenty years ago was my pre-Jesus period.
I had my favorite section of the video; that’s where I’d view. I didn’t want my husband to find it, so I put it in the “jacket” of an exercise video that I didn’t like. It went on the shelf with all the rest of the videos.
I would remember the video from time to time. Gradually, I lost interest. Maybe five years later, a few years into my relationship with Jesus, I was heading out the door one morning. It was garbage day. “Wait!” Holy Spirit “tapped me on the shoulder” -– “What about that video?”. I knew exactly what HE was talking about. I took it off the shelf. Into the garbage it went! What a relief!! A feeling of freedom filled my spirit!! I couldn’t stop giggling!
I was so excited!! I KNEW it was Holy Spirit convicting me! Sometimes, that’s how HE changes us – a little at a time. Of course, that led to changes in my movies and TV shows.
Thank GOD that HE doesn’t give up on us! HE will never quit. HE is gentle and kind. HE changes us little by little. HE makes life unexpectedly exciting!!
07/27/20