Flip the Script in 2025!

Flip the Script in 2025

It’s the start of a new year—a season for change and fresh beginnings. Yet, if we’re honest, most of us have already struggled to follow through on the New Year’s resolutions we just made a couple of days ago. Statistics reveal that a staggering 75% of resolutions fail within the first month. As a matter of fact, I just found out that most quit by the 2nd Friday in January. This day is actually referred to as Quitters Day. Why is change so challenging? Whether it’s losing weight, improving our attitude, or growing in spiritual disciplines like Bible reading, the struggle is real. If you’ve felt stuck in a cycle of frustration, you’re not alone.

Judges 3:12-30

The story of Ehud unfolds in a familiar pattern from the book of Judges. God’s people turned away from Him, doing what was right in their own eyes. As a result, they faced oppression until they cried out for deliverance. This time, the oppressor was Eglon, the king of Moab, who ruled over Israel for 18 years. When Israel repented, God raised up Ehud, “a left-handed man” from the tribe of Benjamin, to deliver them.

Being left-handed was unusual in that time, often seen as a disadvantage. But Ehud’s unique trait became the key to his success. With a handmade, double-edged sword concealed on his right thigh, Ehud gained access to King Eglon under the guise of delivering tribute. Alone with the king, Ehud declared, “I have a message from God for you,” and struck down Eglon. He escaped, rallied Israel, and led them to victory over Moab, securing peace for 80 years.

Flipping the Script

Ehud’s story is more than a tale of deliverance; it’s a powerful reminder that God uses our perceived weaknesses for His glory. Perhaps you’ve felt trapped by labels or limitations. Maybe you’ve believed the narrative that you can’t change. But just as Ehud flipped the script of his life, so can you.

Psalm 51:10 reminds us of David’s cry: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” If you’re longing for renewal, consider these three steps inspired by Ehud’s story:

1. Start Where You Are

The first step to flipping the script is acknowledging your current reality. Israel’s predicament was a result of their disobedience. Judges 3:12 says, “The people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the Lord.” They faced the consequences of their choices but cried out to God for help.

What about you? Are there areas of your life where you’re living out the consequences of past actions? Perhaps it’s a strained relationship, a financial burden, or a spiritual dryness. The first step toward change is taking responsibility and seeking God’s grace.

Romans 5:8 assures us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” No matter where you’ve been, God’s grace meets you where you are. Start moving forward today.

2. Use What You Have

Ehud’s left-handedness, considered a disadvantage, became a strategic advantage. He didn’t wait for ideal circumstances or resources; he used what he had. Similarly, God calls us to use the gifts, talents, and opportunities He’s already given us.

It’s easy to focus on what we lack or to compare ourselves to others. But what has God placed in your hands? Are you a good listener? Do you have a passion for serving? Whatever it is, God can use it.

1 Corinthians 1:27 says, “But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” When you embrace your God-given uniqueness, He can work through you in ways you never imagined.

To flip the script, start telling yourself the truth. Combat the lies that say, “I’m not enough” with God’s Word. Build accountability with others who will encourage and challenge you. Use what you have, and trust God to multiply it.

3. Do What You Can

Change can feel overwhelming, but lasting transformation happens one step at a time. Ehud didn’t conquer Moab in one grand gesture; he acted courageously in the moment and trusted God for the outcome.

Similarly, we’re often paralyzed by the enormity of the changes we want to make. The key is to break it down into manageable steps. Ask yourself: Can I do it for a day? Whether it’s praying, exercising, or being patient, focus on winning today.

Psalm 40:1-3 beautifully describes God’s redemptive work: “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.” God honors small steps of faith.

As you begin this new year, consider the areas of your life where you need to flip the script. What habits or attitudes need to change? What practical steps can you take today?

Remember Ehud’s example:

• Start where you are. Acknowledge your reality and seek God’s grace.

• Use what you have. Embrace your uniqueness and trust God to use it.

• Do what you can. Take small, consistent steps forward.

With God’s help, you can rewrite the narrative and walk in victory. The year ahead is won one day at a time. Let’s commit to starting today.