The word “when” is a conjunction and an adverb that is used to refer to a specific time or event. For example, “Call me when you arrive.” or “When is the meeting scheduled?” The purpose of our thought is to use the topic, “When” as a question.

I recently had a brief conversation with someone, and they proceeded to say something negative again. In my mind, I am asking the Lord, “When?”. When will this person change? When will this person choose your way and not their way? When? When? When? Persistent stubbornness can lead to severe consequences as stated in Proverbs 29:1. (“Whoever remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy.” Proverbs 29:1)

So, my first question for us to examine ourselves is, “When will you allow the Holy Spirit to rule over you?” Galatians 5:16 reminds us, “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.” Paul is emphasizing the importance of being led by the Holy Spirit as a means to overcome sinful desires and live according to God’s word. Failing to allow the Holy Spirit to lead us can result in living according to our sinful nature, leading to spiritual conflict, a strained relationship with God, and a lack of the Fruit of the Spirit.

My second question is, “When will you surrender your ways for God’s ways?” Talking to His disciples, Jesus said in Matthew 16:24, “… ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'” The need to deny our own desires, plans, attitudes, or thoughts must be in favor of following Jesus if we call ourselves Christians. This looks like I want to give you a piece of my mind, but I will remain quiet. Or you hurt me, but I am choosing to forgive you and love you. We are not doing these things in our strength or because we are weak, but we are giving the Holy Spirit the right-a-way; allowing Him to take the lead. You and I must remember that we no longer represent ourselves; our actions should mimic the character of Jesus.

My last question is, “When will you forgive others just as God has forgiven you?” The call for believers to extend the same forgiveness to others that God has extended to us through Christ is emphasized in Ephesians 4:32 that reminds us, “Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”

Christians can effectively represent Jesus by displaying love and compassion, living with integrity and righteousness, and yielding to the Holy Spirit. These behaviors reflect Christ’s teachings and His character, revealing His presence and power in our lives.