Change is hard, we all know this. As often as it happens, change rarely comes easy. Whether it’s in relationships, seasons, or roles, change is something we can count on, isn’t it? Whether the change is for better or for worse, it takes time to adjust. Just because we experience change often, this doesn’t mean we thrive in it or accept it.
Maybe change means adjusting to the new addition at the holiday dinner table or a missing chair, indicating the absence of someone. Maybe it’s caused by losing a loved one unexpectedly, moving to a new city, or adjusting to a new season of life. Whatever changes you’re currently going through, you are not alone.
As a counselor, I’ve noticed that most counselees struggle with change to some degree. Like you, I’m learning to trust the Lord more and more, each time. Rather than seeing change as a negative experience, what would it look like to have a mindset that views these as moments for worship? Worship isn’t something we do only on Sunday mornings but rather a lifestyle of how we live our lives before God.
Every change presents an opportunity for us to practice our worship toward God. How will we choose to respond to change? Denial? Hope for the best? What if we turn to the Lord, admit that change is hard, and actively choose to trust that what he has for us is best?
In order to accept change, we must first acknowledge that change is happening. It’s helpful to understand how you typically respond to change: do you face it head on, ignore it, or run away from it? Remind yourself that adjusting to changes takes time. Learn to receive grace and grow in patience as you deal with change. It’s also helpful to expect change. We won’t always have time to prepare for some changes, but remember God, who never changes (Malachi 3:6a ESV), is always with us. As Psalm 46:1-3 assures us, we don’t have to be afraid when the solid foundations around us seem to shift and change as God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in our troubles.
Another source of help is to invite others in as we grapple with change. Do you have a small group you could ask to pray with you as you face changes in your life? What about a discipling mentor who can support you by keeping you accountable as you spend time regularly in the Word so that you’re not tempted to sin in the midst of the changes? Remember, we don’t have to face change alone. God created us to be in the midst of community, and we can thank him for that!
For some, it may be a struggle to ask for help. When we are able to acknowledge and accept change, even if it challenges our desire for comfort or highlights our limitations, the more natural it becomes to reach for the one who doesn’t change. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. While we may struggle with the changes in front of us, remember that Christ is the rock of stability who we can turn to. In this holiday season, whether it’s dealing with changes in relationships or shifting life circumstances, I pray we rest, confident that our God who is steadfast is holding onto us.
Pointing people to the Lord is Hyemin’s lifelong calling. As a pastor’s kid who grew up in different cultures, Hyemin enjoys hearing stories of each person she meets, as she...
No Comments.