I can't just wish "if only..."
If only I fully, completely believed that God is, and that He is the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6), I wouldn't be so focused on this material world and troubled by doubts.
If only I truly loved God with all my heart and mind and soul, and loved my neighbor as myself (Matthew 22:37-40), how could any relationship problems exist?
If only I more deeply loved the law of God (Psalm 119:97-98) and really understood it is for my good (Deuteronomy 10:12-13), then I would be more diligent in keeping it and reflecting God's heart and mind.
If only I fully understood the magnitude of sin, its terrible penalties and the awesome sacrifice Christ and the Father made (John 3:16; Hebrews 12:2; Genesis 22:9-12), how could I be tempted by sin's fleeting pleasures (Hebrews 11:25)?
But as I strive to more deeply understand and internalize these truths through study, prayer and meditation, I can't just wish "if only..." I must continue to fight those downward thoughts and pulls through the strength Christ provides through the Holy Spirit (Philippians 4:13). Then when I see Him as He is, I will be like Him (1 John 3:2-3). If only that day will come soon (Revelation 22:20)!
