Sometimes You Need to Break It

The Lord says, “I will guide you along thebest pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.” Psalm32:8 (NLT)

Years ago I read a book by Robert J. Kriegel and Louis Patler entitled If it Ain’t Broke…Break it. In direct opposition to the old saying “If it ain’t broke, don’t fixit,” the authors proposed that some things, even though they seem to be working, should be changed.

We can be stubborn and argue all of the reasons why we shouldn’t change, but sometimes change is simply necessary. In fact, you change for one of two reasons—wisdom or crisis. You can either lead change or have change drag you in directions you don’t want togo.

Many people wait for a crisis to change. Some don’t take their health seriously until they are faced with a major illness. Others refuse to make changes in their management approach until great employees have quit. Some churches refuse to change until attendance has dipped so low that they’re having trouble keeping the lights on.They wanted to avoid change, but change is coming regardless—even if that change comes in the form of having to close their doors.

Just because a system is working does not mean that there isn’t a better, more efficient and more productive way of doing things. Rather than waiting for painful consequences to direct change, you can go after the truth and challenge the way things are currently being done.

Are you waiting for something to force you to change? Remember—God promises to instruct and teach you in the way you should go. Take steps today to embrace change in your habits and belief systems and get ready for the next exciting season ahead of you!