Changed Hearts

If our hearts are not changed (from their natural, sinful state), then doing things God's ways will be unpleasant and difficult. Our spirit will rebel against being told how to live. It will want to live life on its own terms. The Holy Spirit, however, gives us new and right desires - such that we want to obey God (Philippians 2:12-13). With a changed heart, serving God and living life His way becomes our greatest joy. This is what Jesus meant when He said, "My yoke is easy and the burden is light." Surrendered people don't struggle to live life God's way.

But of course, this all starts with the changed heart. It is not possible to be transformed by something with which we are not familiar - or by someone whom we do not really know. How familiar with God's Word am I, really? How well do I really know God?