The Formula…
Things change quickly – we go from young to old in the blink of an eye. From raising kids to holding grandbabies. From playing to working. From carefree to burdened.
I’m not so good at change. A certain two year old in my life loves his routine when he comes over – I get it. It’s safe. It’s comfortable. But we can’t stay two and with all the technology of the last few decades, change is constant. Still our hearts long for things to stay the same.
When we think we can’t count on anyone, can’t count on anything, it’s time to remember: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV)
Just as we go from childhood to maturity, we can also go from wandering to found in Christ. We do not stay the same. And that’s an okay thing. We are made to undergo transformation. If we stayed the same, we would be lost in our sin – lost for eternity. But the very One who never changes can work miraculous change in us.
Where fear once dominated – comes power, love, sound mind. When doubt pervades our next breath – the Holy Spirit can replace it with belief. ( 2 Timothy 1:7 and James 1:6) Those kind of changes I welcome.
We can even come to know God’s will: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–His good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2 NIV)
Hmm, that would make change easier. There are several places in the Bible that tell us God’s will – one of my favorites: “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV)
And there it is – God’s formula to navigate the rapid changes that often leave us fearful or fretful. Joyful always – not happy, because that depends on the moment, but joy in knowing God has this all figured out. Pray continually – not just at meals, or a set time, but in all the moments lift our thoughts and hearts to Him. Give thanks in all – no matter if the circumstance is a wondrous or worrisome – thank Him because He tell us He works out all things for those who love Him.
parisrenae 
Thank you. And a very timely reminder as change will happen with or without us. Good message.
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Yes, we think we have control – when we could rest so much easier knowing the One who is in control and letting Him lead the way. Blessings as you trust in Him know matter the changes day to day…
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I’m the same I don’t like change, I have had too many sudden traumatic changes in my life over the years & I dislike it immensely! But change is inevitable in this life on planet earth!
I’m glad we have a Savior who is the same constant no matter what!
Remember you’re always welcome to join me in a cuppa, 😀
Bless you,
Jennifer
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What rest it gives our souls to know Jesus never changes – we can count on His love, His grace, His mercy and so much more. Blessings as you rest assured…
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There is peace and a relief in knowing that our God has us in His hands, in His will. It just is that leaning on Him that I find not so easy, but a desire of mine. Thanks for a fine post…and a good one for me now too.
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Linda, I was drawn to your site from your comment – love your story and I can see the joy of the Lord in your smile. Blessings sister in the Lord as you lean on Him in new ways growing ever closer to our awesome Savior.
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Yes! I love this because change is hard for me too! But remembering who God is and embracing joy can make all the difference!
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Praising God for His unchanging ways – mercy, love, peace, wisdom – and the deposit of the Holy Spirit to see us safely through all the changes 🙂
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