A Change of Heart
Growing up, we were raised in a conservative environment. Over time, some strong convictions we held became less relevant. One conviction our parents held for a long time was their views on jewelry. My friend shared a story about trying to convince her dad to let her get her ears pierced. She insisted it was okay, but he strongly opposed it. Finally, she said, "You know, I probably won't ever get my ears pierced because it will upset you. But it doesn't change that it's a desire of my heart. That is probably the same as if I already got them done." She said they both agreed on that. As believers, we can sometimes think that just avoiding things we are told are wrong is enough to make us good and pleasing to God. We can miss the need for a heart change. What really pleases God, however, is when our hearts are truly changed through a real relationship with Him. Jesus told a story about a father and his two sons. The younger son asked for his share of the inherit...
