The Key to Real Change - Intentional Faith

How One Simple Shift in Faith Can Transform Your Life Forever!

The Struggle We All Face

How many of us go through life wondering:

• "Does it get any better?"

• "Will I ever grow closer to Jesus?"

• "Is anything I do actually worth it?"

I guarantee more of us ask these questions than we’d like to admit. The truth is, I’ve wrestled with these thoughts myself.

The other day, after finishing a podcast episode, I felt completely drained. It didn’t make sense—I had just spent time talking about Jesus, His words, and how we can grow in our relationship with Him. Yet, instead of feeling encouraged, I was overwhelmed with doubt:

• Did I say the wrong things?

• Is sharing about Jesus even making a difference?

• Would it be better to quit?

These thoughts weren’t just self-doubt; they were spiritual attacks and my own human weakness creeping in. But instead of letting them win, I made a choice—I refused to believe that was the end of the story.

A Shift in Perspective

One of the topics I had discussed on the podcast was fasting. In biblical times, fasting was a way people drew closer to the Lord. Here’s a brief look at what fasting means:

Fasting in the Bible often involves abstaining from food because food is something we rely on daily for physical sustenance. When we choose to give up food, we’re essentially saying that our spiritual needs—our relationship with God, His guidance, and His strength—are more important than our physical needs. It's a way to shift our focus away from temporary satisfaction and refocus on God's presence and provision.By fasting, we also practice self-discipline and humility. It’s a reminder that, while food is necessary for survival, it’s God who ultimately sustains us in every way. The act of fasting helps us recognize that we are completely dependent on Him—not just for physical needs, but for our spiritual growth and understanding.

I decided to take a step. Not a drastic one—just one intentional meal. I chose to skip lunch, but I made sure I wasn’t just starving myself. I filled that time with seeking God.

Intentionality in Action

How did I stay intentional? Through Worship, Prayer, Bible Study, and Teaching. I surrounded myself with things that help me draw near to the Lord.

I opened my Bible and landed in Romans. I couldn’t put it down. It felt like I was reading about Jesus for the first time all over again. One chapter, in particular, grabbed my attention: Romans 7.

Here’s what stood out to me:

“The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate... Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 7:14-25)

This passage hit me hard. Paul was experiencing the same struggle I was—wanting to do good but feeling stuck in failure. Yet, the answer wasn’t in working harder or being perfect. The answer was in Jesus.

Moving Forward with Confidence

The next time you feel overwhelmed by doubt, I encourage you to turn to Jesus. Consider fasting—not as a ritual, but as an intentional way to seek Him. He restores, encourages, and heals.

Let’s not allow restless thoughts to define us. Instead, let’s run toward the One who holds our purpose and our peace.