Session 10

The No. 1 excuse we make to avoid change

From Acts: A 28-Day Devotional

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Peter travels to share the message of Jesus with Cornelius, a Roman military commander. Cornelius and his family decide to follow Jesus.

“I can’t help it! That’s just the way I am!”

Have you ever used that excuse? It’s easy to use the way we were raised or the things we’ve been taught as excuses to hold on to habits and attitudes God calls us to change.

Peter would’ve understood. What God asked Peter to do went against everything Peter’s family and culture believed. Jews didn’t associate with “those” people — ever.

Acts 10:29 is such a startling response, “so when I was sent for, I came without raising any objection.” Peter’s attitudes and beliefs were passed down to him over many generations, but Jesus’ calling was bigger than any of that. Is that true for you?

It doesn’t matter if your past is filled with great memories or painful ones. You’ve inherited attitudes and habits that need to change. As the Bible shows you new ways to think and feel, how will you respond?

Reflect:

• What does this passage teach us about God? How does it apply to you?
• We are all works in progress. How has Jesus changed your perspective since you met Him? What is God changing in you now?
• Many people struggle to accept that God loves all people and all races. Does your heart hold any prejudices that God wants you to overcome?