What have you got to lose?

Every now and then I run into people, old friends or merely acquaintances, whom I haven't seen in some time.  A majority of the time we get caught up in talking about the kids, work, the latest vacation or some other trivial aspect of life.  Once in awhile, though, the conversation has some meaning as we talk about how our lives have changed, how our perspective is now different or how our priorities have been realigned as a result of some incident, tragedy or trauma.

As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.  All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts.  Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath.  Ephesians 2:1-3

I have asked God and, myself, many times why it takes a trauma, tragedy or life altering event for us to truly turn our eyes to Jesus?  As much as I haven't liked the answers, which is obviously why I continue to ask, the reality of it has set in.  Just as Paul writes here in Ephesians, with God absent from our lives, we are at the mercy of a different spirit.  One that preys on our Earthly desires and selfish thoughts.  A spirit that manipulates and distorts our perspectives and thoughts so that simple, natural justification can prevail in any circumstance.

However, there comes a time in life when the reality of this strikes a chord:  we are spiritual beings having a physical experience.  Becoming spiritually inclined is an awakening of sorts in that either the pain of the wrath of God due to our disobedience or the miracle of the grace He offers, opens our hearts and minds to this new perspective. 

The God of Heaven is patiently waiting, and will always be waiting, for those who are ready to come to Him.  It is my experience that each of us will, at some point in our lives, need the presence of the Holy Spirit.  It is not a matter of if, but when.  I have chosen to have Him at my side daily for comfort, support, love and encouragement.  I have been in the deep, dark pit of despair that results from trying to live without Him, relying solely on me, myself and I.  That is a place I never want to return to...ever.  That is Hell. 

The journey back to living a life for God, with the Holy Spirit, will not-as Matt Maher says in his song "fix your life in 5 easy steps".  It will, however, bring peace to your spirit so that you can begin making better decisions, seeing life more clearly and, putting things into a new perspective.  God is waiting for you and me to choose Him over everything else. Will today be that day for you? 

Nobody, at no time, in an any age, is perfect.  The social stigma that has been placed on believers to be "perfect" is unattainable and keeps many from committing their lives to a higher pursuit.  No one, not even our Heavenly Father, expects perfection from me or you.  It is the pursuit of a holy life and recognizing when we slip, asking for forgiveness, and getting back on the path- that is what is expected. 

Make today the day you fully commit- all in- to the pursuit of a holy life through Jesus Christ.  What have you got to lose?