I like the idea of changing. I have read so many books on how to improve areas of my life and I implement these changes as I see fit. The key phrase being IF I see fit. When you want to change in your own power, read a self-help book. If you want to change in a way that tests your resolve, ask God to change you. When I ask God to help me improve in areas of my life that I feel convicted that I am deficient in, I tend to get opportunities to act in a manner contrary to my nature. For example, if I pray to be a more patient mother, I get opportunities where my children try my patience and given the option to respond in love and patience or frustration. The choice is mine, but it can be painful. To have opportunities to do the right thing, wanting to change, and trying to change in my own power is a recipe for disaster. I am not strong enough to make all of the changes that I want for my life on my own. I am human, imperfect, fallen, and overall prone to a lack of patience. I also am forgiven, redeemed, loved, and given grace by God. No matter how many times I fall, he picks me back up, dusts me off, and helps me try again. When opportunity knocks, no matter how scary it is, I will continue to answer.