Change is something I rarely seek and often resist, but lately God has been working on me to accept and embrace change. I’m not speaking about change that arises from boredom or the desire to do something different, but meaningful change. Changes that leads to a better way of doing things or spiritual or emotional growth is productive and healthy. But, it so much easier to stick with what we know than it is to change.
Amidst several staffing changes at our church recently, my pastor said to me, “People see change as bad. Change isn’t good or bad. It’s just different.” I don’t think he was saying that because he felt I was resisting the changes that had taken place; however, I do believe the Holy Spirit inspired him to make that comment to me at that time.
I know that he’s right and that the changes that took place were God ordained, but I would have preferred that things had stayed the same. I liked the people who moved on to other callings and I couldn’t envision our church without them. While I still miss them, I have accepted that God had a plan and His plan is best. Those who moved on are ministering in congregations that needed them and new leaders are being developed from members of our congregation. Those particular changes have provided new opportunities for growth in leadership for members of our congregation. The new leaders have stepped up to the challenge and God is blessing their work.
I think some of my resistance to change has its roots in my childhood. Growing up as the daughter of a Marine, I attended 6 different elementary school in four different states. Just as we settled into a new home and a new community, Dad would get orders and we’d be off again. My sisters and I would have to get accustomed to a new school and make new friends. I was constantly saying good bye to old friends. Of course, each move allowed us to meet new people and make new friends. God used these moves to bring people into our lives that lead our family to Him and helped us grow. He also used those changes to help me quickly become comfortable in new situations and taught me to reach out to those who are new and make them feel welcome.
I know that changes that God initiates are for His glory and my growth. I trust that God loves me more than I love myself. The changes He wants for me will help me to become more Christ-like and to draw closer to God. I want to not only accept those changes but learn to embrace and celebrate them. My ultimate desire is to honor God in all that I do each day and I can only do that as I allow Him to change me and my circumstances to conform with His will. I don’t know what changes God has planned for me in the coming months and years, but I fully trust Him and know that those changes are for my ultimate good.
Susan's Reflections 
My company is undergoing some serious changes right now. We are being purchased by a competitor and the sale should be finalized this fall. With that said, there is a lot of angst when it comes to change and everyone is trying to lift up one another to get through it. One thing I read recently (unknown author) said: Change is life giving. It helps us grow into someone greater than we already are. Keep that in mind 🙂
I’m sure the sale of the company is causing some stress for the employees in regard to their job security and future. That uncertainty can make for a difficult work climate. You are right that change is life giving. Whether you keep your job or lose it, you will have new opportunities and may find this change to be a blessing in disguise. Isn’t it wonderful to know that God is in control and you don’t have to worry about your future.
Susan, [most] every night when I say my prayers, I lift of the prayers and concerns of others. I pray that those facing challenges find comfort in God, and find strength through faith. Are changes a challenge? Sure. Some changes are challenges, especially when the change was not self-induced. I need not pray for you, though. You are seeking strength in your faith and comfort through God. Keep on keepin’ on. You’re doing great!
We serve a good God, Lenore. I am so glad that we know God and rely on His comfort and strength in times of challenge. I can’t imagine facing the challenges of life without God.