I have found that in my life one of the hardest things to do while preparing for change is to keep my heart in the right attitude. Change is hard. I think no matter how small the change is it is hard. And man, those big changes are sometimes just no fun. But if we are seeking God’s will for our lives, and obeying the commands of Scripture we must remind ourselves, and many times those around us, that change is a blessing. The Bible promises,
Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
But if we want the confidence that the change that is coming is part of God’s will for our lives we must be seeking Him, loving Him, and serving Him with all of our hearts. I have found it very helpful to use these tools in preparing my heart for change. I believe that they are tools that GOd has placed in our lives to help us keep our heart focused on Him during the challenging times that change can bring.
– Look to your church family. This is why it is so important to be connected to a local church body. The Bible commands us to assemble with other believers and if we are doing that on a regular basis they can offer support, prayers, and encouragement that no one else can. They will know us, know our hearts, and know our struggles if we are bonded with them. Change can be a lot less stressful and scary if we have friends that love us supporting us.
– Surround yourself with Scripture. The more that you read verses that speak strength and courage into your heart the more you will be able to combat Satan’s “fiery darts” of doubt when they creep in. Find a verse that speaks of God’s protection and strength and when you are weak and tired, pray it back to Him asking for His help. Don’t focus on the negative of the change, but choose to look at the ways that God can use this change to further His work in your life. Is opening new doors of ministry? Is He teaching you a new perspective on life? Is your love for others and for Him growing through this time? Having index cards of Scriptures around the house or office or even the car will help you to maintain a “heavenly” focus as you are preparing for change and even adjusting to it after it arrives. Not many things of this world make sense to us, but that is because we see the little picture of the here and now, but God sees the workings of the whole world and He is using us for His will and glory if we are serving Him.
– One Day at a Time – You can only do so much each day and we must be okay with that. Sometimes a big part of preparing your heart for change is to choose peace and calm. We can’t do it all. We can’t control everything and if we can accept that life will be easier. Everything is harder and seems bigger if we are stressed and anxious. But, dear friends, if you choose to embrace the peace that passes all understanding that God offers to His children and allow Him to direct your path and choose the next step then change doesn’t have to be so overwhelming.
If you are preparing for change in your life I pray that you will allow God and His people to minister to you, pray for you, and encourage you through this time. Change is hard but God doesn’t promise us an easy life, but He does promise His love and support along whatever path we are called to walk. And today my prayer for you is that you will cling to this verse and embrace the change that is coming.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:29
Beautiful, wise and encouraging words.