Increased Capacity

"And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins." Mark 2:22 If you've ever been running, you'll know that the body takes an extraordinary amount of energy and oxygen to keep going. If you've ever started a new running routine, it can be overwhelming realizing how out of shape we can be! Running just 300 yards can leave us gasping for air, and frustrated with ourselves. But, just like our hearts, our lungs increase in their capacity as they are worked to improve blood flow and respiration. As we continue to pursue our goals what first seemed overwhelming becomes easier. Soon, running even three miles is a breeze as we've trained our lungs' and hearts' capacity for growth. This is much like our walk (or run) of faith. As we develop our gifts and calling in God, we need increased capacity so he can rule and reign even more in our lives. Often the old ways of thinking won't do for where we're headed, and we need a brand new way of thinking in order to keep us on track. (New wine skins.) God is never stagnant. Although His character remains the same, walking with Him requires us to change, so that we can be continuously renewed. Our minds, souls, and spirits have to "stretch" to allow the presence and indwelling of the Holy Spirit to rule them, as we allow Him to increase our capacity. Growth hurts sometimes, as does change. But these are two necessary pieces if we are going to move forward into God's plans for our lives. Are there areas where God is trying to increase your capacity; for love, for faith, for grace? Be open to the challenge. You never know what will come of it as a result. Related resource: Change Your World: How Anyone, Anywhere Can Make a Difference by John C. Maxwell

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