“Can the Leopard change his spots?” Jeremiah 13:23

Q. Dear Brother Lewis, I recently (9/2/1998) read a copy of your SOURCE LIVING magazine from the Summer of 1991. The subject was “How Can I Ever Change?” This article touched on something I have wondered about for a long time: whether it is my responsibility to change or God’s.  In this issue, you made the following statement: “It is not you who does the changing.  Change is God’s responsibility.”  I am writing to ask for your help in understanding this thought in light of verses like Ephesians 4:1 and many others where Paul exhorts us to make a change. Thanks, Wes

A. Dear Wes, you referred to my comment about change being God’s responsibility. Then you asked me about Ephesians 4:1. You mentioned that, according to this verse and others, it appears the Apostle Paul is exhorting us to make a change.

Paul beseeched us to walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called in Ephesians 4:1. However, he was not telling us to change, but rather exhorting us to be who we are and live accordingly. If you examine the epistles, you will notice that normally the first half of the book is about our identity in Christ. Paul is focusing on our inward character, while the last half is about our outward conduct. This conduct is based on our inward resources in Christ and the Holy Spirit’s divine enabling.

What is the calling that Paul referred to in Ephesians 4:1? This calling has several aspects. According to Ephesians 1:1 and Romans 1, we are called to be saints. God first calls us to Himself—to Jesus Christ our Lord (Ephesians 1:5). We are called to be to the praise of His glory (Ephesians 1:12). In Ephesians 1:18, we are told about the “hope of His calling,” which in Colossians 1:27 we find to be “Christ in you.”

The outworking of our calling is described in Ephesians 2:10. We are called to walk in good works. However, Christ told us that there is none good but one–God. Therefore, the source of our works must derive from Christ. This means we should allow Christ to accomplish His good and perfect works in and through us. “For it is God who works in us both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).

But He can only begin to work in us when we have ceased from our own human efforts (Hebrews 4:10). When we do, we can walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called (Ephesians 4:1) by manifesting the character of Christ. These Christlike attributes, which are described in Ephesians 4:2, are actually another description for the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22, 23).

That is why we are exhorted to be filled with the Spirit. Then the Holy Spirit can produce the character of Christ in us. Paul concludes in Ephesians 6:10 by exhorting us to be what we are (strong in the Lord) and to utilize what we have (the power of His might) Colossians 2:9.

MORE, READ: https://www.sourceministries.net/go/resources/how-can-i-ever-change/

MORE, LISTEN: https://www.sourceministries.net/go/2010/12/change-or-exchange/

Lewis W. Gregory © 1998

9-3-18

LABOR DAY in the United States is a time to recognize everyone who has labored long and hard to provide us with the many good things we have. These things cover the entire gamut of our lives, from the necessities of food, clothing, and shelter to the many luxuries and family activities we enjoy today.

I am personally very grateful for all the nice things that our ancestors worked so hard to provide for us. But where has all this hard labor really gotten us? Our country is still filled with people who are torn with anger and cruelty, hurt and heartache, division and strife, fear and anxiety, and the list goes on. Too many people remain discontent, with much murmuring and complaining.

What is wrong? Could our labor be in vain? There are many types of labor. What makes our labor vain or valuable? The Apostle Paul gives us the answer, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”  1 Corinthians 15:58

Vain labors are everywhere! People often look back over their lives with regret at the fruit of their labor. They begin with so much potential, and yet it all seems to be for naught: such a tragic waste of precious lives.

What constitutes vain labors? Vain labors have no eternal significance. They are null and void, without true meaning or purpose. Thus, even though they might give us momentary satisfaction, they are of no lasting value. They cannot truly fulfill, satisfy, or gratify us.

What is the source of your labor? The source of our labor determines the worth of our labor. If our labor originates with the Lord and is done in and through the Lord, then we will have true fulfillment. But if not, then it is all in vain, with nothing to show for our futile labors except regrets and heartaches.

There are many vain labors. Tragically, many people’s labors are in vain! Perhaps this is why so many people say they hate their jobs. However, the job is not the real problem; it is how you go about it. There may well be things you don’t like about your job; that’s normal. But everything in life is doable and bearable.

Are your labors fleshly efforts or Divine activity? If your labor stems from your fleshly human efforts, not even the best job in the world could satisfy you. But if your labor is derived from the Lord, then you can find fulfillment in any job, no matter how menial the task may be. Although it will still be described as your labor, it will no longer be a labor of your own making. When your labor is derived from the Lord and is accomplished by the Lord (as He works in and through your humanity), then it is never, ever in vain!

Conclusion: Do you want your labors to be valuable both now and for all eternity? If so, you must yield yourself completely to the Lord Jesus Christ and allow Him to do His good and perfect work through you. When you do, the Almighty God will become the Source of your labor . . . and nothing is too hard for Him!

The Lord will enable you and equip you for whatever comes your way. As a result, your labor will originate with the Lord and will also glorify the Lord. Then you will be able to say with the Apostle Paul, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). You will enjoy true fulfillment and contentment in everything you do. Now that makes it all worthwhile!

God bless the USA,

Dr. Lewis & Lue Gregory

LISTEN to FAITH WORKS to find out more

. https://www.sourceministries.net/go/2012/10/faith-works/

Lewis W. Gregory © 2018

KNOWING and DOING the WILL of GOD

Dr. Lewis Gregory

     Ever since Adam and Eve’s pivotal decision in the Garden of Eden, which resulted in their fall, people have faced the challenges of decision-making. It should be evident from the garden experience that humans are incapable of making the right decisions. And yet, making the right decisions is the essential precursor to right living. So, what’s a person to do?

LISTEN to the song on DECISION MAKING to find out. Thanks to AI for the music.

Lewis W. Gregory © 2026

DOES PRAYER REALLY CHANGE THINGS?

Many people think prayer changes things. But does it really?

The idea that prayer changes things is a common misconception.

Why?

People who have prayed sometimes become discouraged.

So, they will ask Why? Why are my prayers not answered?

LISTEN to the song DOES PRAYER CHANGE THINGS  to discover WHY. Thanks to AI for the music.

Many people think prayer changes things. But does it really? All religions emphasize prayer, which is a good thing. And most people have occasionally prayed, which is a good start.

But to whom are they praying? And what is the basis of their prayers? People who have prayed sometimes become discouraged. So, they will ask, Why? Why are my prayers not answered? Jesus explained, “When you pray, don’t use a lot of meaningless words, as others do. They think God will hear them because of their long prayers” (Matthew 6:7).

But for your prayers to be effective, God must be your Father. When you are born of the Spirit of God, then God becomes your Heavenly Father. Jesus said, “When you pray, you should pray to your Heavenly Father God, who will hear and answer your prayers” (Matthew 6:6). “Your Heavenly Father will give good gifts to those who ask Him” (Matthew 7:11).

However, you must pray through Jesus Christ your Lord. And you must pray in faith, trusting Father God to answer! When you pray to your Father God, by faith in Jesus’ name, then Father God will respond. God will work, which is a Grace thing!

PRAYER doesn’t work, but Father God works when we pray. So, does prayer change things? NO! Absolutely not! PRAYER does NOT change things! But God changes things—through prayer!

Jesus said, “Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask, and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full” (John 16:24). Therefore, PRAY in Jesus’ name, believe that you receive it, and you will have it.

Because . . . GOD CHANGES THINGS, THROUGH PRAYER! Yes, He does. Thank You, Jesus!!! Hallelujah! Amen!

Lewis W. Gregory © 2014

LISTEN to the song, thanks to AI for the music.

https://www.sourceministries.net/go/2026/09/does-prayer-change-things-song/

READ an example of Prayer – https://www.sourceministries.net/go/2020/01/praying-for-others/

A rotten road I’ve traveled,

The way of sin I’ve been.

I saw my life unraveled,

And felt I must give in.

Then I found the way . . .

Dr. Lewis W. Gregory

LISTEN to THE WAY OF VICTORY in song as a relaxing way to reflect and be refreshed. Thanks to AI for the music.

Lewis W. Gregory © 2026

God told Abraham, “I will establish my covenant between me and you and your seed after you in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God to you, and to your seed after you.” Genesis 17:7

People often wonder if God will do what He says He will do. If so, then can I trust Him with my life? Christ came to Earth, lived the perfect life, and died the perfect death. He then arose from the dead and ascended back to Father God.

The life Christ lived in relationship to God proved God’s trustworthiness. Jesus Christ fulfilled The Everlasting Covenant that God made with Abraham on behalf of all mankind. Christ established the everlasting covenant between you and God (Genesis 17:7)!

LISTEN to THE COVENANT in song as a relaxing way to reflect and be refreshed. Thanks to AI for the music.

Lewis W. Gregory © 2026

BARNEY IS GONE – What to do when your pet dies. This is the story of loving and losing. But more than that, it is about the privilege of having a pet we could love, enjoy, and spend time with. It is about the loss of our favorite pet dog Barney. Strange the things our Lord uses to help us understand the depths of human pain and suffering. Anyway, Barney’s death caused me to reflect upon the various losses we experience and how deeply it hurts. Our rational mind can help us to deal with it logically, but we still feel the pain and must grieve the loss. This message has helped many people. I pray it will also be helpful to you and your family at the appropriate time. Let’s walk through it together. Psalm 40:1-5, 9-10

LEWIS with his first dog REX

USS Ault Vietnam 1967

A TIME OF REMEMBRANCE – MEMORIAL DAY in the USA is a time to remember those who gave the supreme sacrifice for our freedom. It is estimated that over 1,305,000 military personnel have died on behalf of the United States of America since its inception. 1,305,000 people may not sound like very many compared to the total US population of 300,000,000 plus people. However, every single person who died was a HUGE LOSS to the loved ones that were left behind. Moreover, their death is a HUGE GIFT to every US citizen.

FREEDOM COST THEM EVERYTHING – These brave men and women all DIED to give us the freedom, prosperity, and privileges that we enjoy today in the United States of America. Let us remember with thanksgiving those who gave their lives that we might have the privilege to live “in the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

MY PERSONAL STORY – During  my tour of duty in 1967 with the US Navy in Vietnam, I traveled to  the city of Manila in the Philippines. My visit to the city included the  cemetery where the US soldiers from World War II were buried. What a  sight! I gazed in awe at the seemingly endless rows of white crosses  (over 17,000) marking their graves.

    My namesake, Lewis Richey, one of my Dad’s best friends, died in that war while fighting in the Philippines. I couldn’t help but wonder if his name was on one of those crosses. The sight of all those crosses was a vivid reminder of the great price that has been paid for freedom.

    It was a deeply moving time for me. As a soldier myself, it struck close to home. This was partly because I was in the midst of a war in a distant land, far removed from family and  friends. But it was primarily because of the contrast between all those crosses and the one cross they represented.

THE ULTIMATE FREEDOM – What is the Cross behind the crosses? As I looked at all those crosses, I couldn’t help but think of what the Cross symbolized, and what it means to me personally. What is the significance of the cross?

    When Jesus Christ died upon the cross, He defeated Satan, thus liberating us from Satan’s dominion of sin and death. Satan, as the God of this world, is the architect of war. He, who was a murderer from the beginning, has come to steal, kill, and destroy all humanity. But Jesus Christ came so that we might have an abundant life (John 10:10). Upon receiving Christ, we are made free and alive by His life that now dwells within us. Hallelujah for new life in Christ!

    Thank You, Lord Jesus, for making the supreme sacrifice for our eternal freedom. And thank You, Lord, for all those brave men and women in the US Military who have sacrificed their lives for our human freedoms.

MAY THEIR SACRIFICE NOT BE IN VAIN – Today, in America, we enjoy the benefits of the great sacrifice of our fallen soldiers. Therefore, we should do whatever we can to ensure that those American soldiers did not die in vain! Furthermore, we should all endeavor to preserve, uphold, and cherish the freedoms, values, and privileges that these brave men and women have preserved for us through their sacrifice.

    But remember, it was not just their sacrifice, but the sacrifices of the families who lost loved ones. For them, the sorrows of war live on. I saw this personally because my uncle Billy, a US Marine, was killed while fighting in the Pacific during World War II. My Grandmother, my mother and the family carried the grief of his death their entire life. War is always a very sad and sobering time for everyone involved. Yes, we celebrate the victories won, but we should also mourn and pray for the families who have lost loved ones.

GRATEFUL REMEMBRANCE – May we all come together as “one nation under God” to remember with grateful hearts the military personnel who have died for this country. We have much to remember, and much for which to be thankful. We can enjoy this great country today because of the many military personnel who DIED in defense of the USA.

    We should take time to express our gratitude to God on behalf of those who have made our freedom possible. And, of course, be mindful and prayerful of our military who are currently putting themselves in harm’s way to defend this country. As they continue to sacrifice their physical lives, please pray that they might have Spiritual Life through our Lord Jesus Christ.

    Thank God for those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. And thank God for the ONE who died for all, that we might be free indeed . . . free to walk in newness of life because of Jesus Christ the Lord! And let us pray that our national motto, “In God we trust,” would become a reality for all the citizens of this great country!

    On this Memorial Day, we can all be encouraged by the words of the Lord Jesus, “These things I have spoken to you so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NASB).

God bless the USA!!!

Dr. Lewis Gregory © 2026