Don't Try to Change People

People come into our lives for a reason and a season. We have to be able to discern the length of the season and enjoy it while it lasts and learn the lessons they are positioned to teach us.

Problems arise when we determine that they need to change and fit our agenda and then stay longer than God intended them to. Some families wait a long time to have children, and not always because they choose to wait. Since children are a heritage from the Lord, it is He who determines when to add them to a home. He ordained pregnancies to last nine months and no more; most women would say “Amen!”

Babies soon become toddlers and toddlers turn into inquisitive children. Children must grow up; who could endure endless adolescence? Nothing stays the same; even adults change. The more we grow, the more we know; it’s all part of His plan. We bring that knowledge and experience into each relationship we form and we leave some behind as we rub off on one another.

The point is that we have to meet each other where we find each other and accept one another as we find ourselves. We can have no preconceived expectations; each experience is brand new. We can learn from each person who crosses our path and we have something to teach them if they’re open to learning. When we stop learning, we stop growing and begin to die.

Some people will teach you more relevant lessons than others; some lessons will only be topical. The key is to accept people as you find them and not try to make them fit your mold. Let them be exactly who they are and don’t focus on what they might become down the road. We’re all works in progress and have much growing to do.

Let’s take time to enjoy the journey. We may not all reach the same destination or be heading to the same place. Focus on the time you have with each person and consider it a gift. While you’re in their presence find the present.