Three Things to Remember When Experiencing Change

By Shana Schutte
 
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.  Psalm 32:8

Last year, my husband and I considered making some significant life changes which I knew would take both of us out of our comfort zone. As I talked with the Lord about our situation, three life lessons came to mind. If you are in the middle of making a life change you have chosen, or even if you are in the middle of one that has been thrust upon you that you didn’t want, I hope these three truths encourage you like they encouraged me.
 
You can never lose what really matters. For those who belong to Christ, nothing this world offers—when removed—really matters. And what does really matter, we can never lose. Therefore, we can be free from being consumed by the fear of loss. We can never lose His love. We can never lose His guidance, or presence, or faithfulness. These are steadfast and sure when the world around us is changing.
 
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23).
 
Peace follows obedience. As my husband and I began discussing our new plan, I wrestled with the decision. I cried a few times, scratched honest words in my journal, and prayed. But I sensed the Lord inviting me to surrender, so I gave in. I started saying things like, “I have made changes before and God has been faithful. I can do it again.” “We are the Lord’s servants. We do what He wants, when He wants.” Through surrender, I was reminded that where God rules, peace reigns. I honestly believe our trials are often more difficult than they need to be because we won’t give in to God’s way. When we rail against Him, we make it so much harder on ourselves. Give in and go with God.
 
Focus on what you are gaining. Jesus is so faithful. But sometimes we get so focused on what we are losing that we forget that God doesn’t just remove something from us; He removes us to something as well. We must remember that He has our best interest in mind, that He is working all things in light of His eternal purposes, and He never removes something from the believer without very good reason.
 
“Who is the man who fears the LORD? He will instruct him in the way he should choose” (Psalm 25:12).
 
Prayer: Lord, thank you that everything that happens in my life is known by you, so I know you have made provision for me in every circumstance. Help me to rest in this truth and to trust you with the unknown. Amen.