If you are anything like me, then you most likely have had a bad experience with change and transition. We naturally seem to fight it with our every being, as it tends to shatter all of our “illusions” of control.
Most of us attempt to “control” just about everything around us: our finances, careers, relationships, schedules, bodies, and maybe even our church experiences. I find that most of our negativity and resistance to change usually centers around this overwhelming desire, sometimes to the point of idolatry, for control. Perhaps we have struggled with anxious thoughts and behaviors, or have experienced a situation in which we were subject to trauma or loss. Whatever it is that has imprinted upon our hearts and minds, our spirits are naturally resolute to stick to what we consider comfortable and safe.
I briefly thought that choosing to follow Jesus meant God would keep me happy and snug in my own little corner of the world. My “theology” was centered upon wanting my own continuous comfort and desires, rather than yearning and thirsting for what God desired for me (Jeremiah 2:13). Change seemed to be an irritating and unnerving quirk in life, and I was dead set on keeping my “peace.” I quickly and abruptly realized that God does not (thankfully) operate within our comfort zone. He desires for us to abide in Him and follow Him, trusting in His perfect guidance and sovereignty every step of the way (John 15:5; Psalm 22:3-5).
I once had a wise pastor tell me, “Change can be painful, it doesn’t mean that it is wrong.” Oh, how I wish I could always get this through to my heart and brain! Yet, I have come to understand that change and transition are the mechanisms of which God reveals where our dependence (and our heart) truly resides. Personally, I have wrestled and struggled with always reflecting the glory of God in the way I approach any change in my life. I have prayed prayers of frustration, anger, and confusion. I have cried and groaned with the Lord as I have mourned the loss of dreams that will never come to pass. No matter the transitions and the different ways I turn in life, I have come to the same conclusion as Peter: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68)
All of us experience change that is good, as well as change resulting due to a devastating loss, tragedy, trauma, or struggle. So, how can we seek to reflect the nature and image of God in all of life’s transitions?
Reflect on the trustworthiness of God
As a spiritual discipline, I find it so important to meditate on God through a reading and study of Scripture. Time and time again, I am reminded of a faithful God who can be trusted in all things and all seasons of life. I am reminded that He is my sun and shield, He does not withhold any good from me as I walk in righteousness (Psalm 84:11).
Know that there is always a “but”
I love the Psalms and how the writers are not shy to reveal their laments and suffering to the Lord. I have found a pattern within many of these types of Psalms: The Psalmist gives voice to the pain and suffering they are going through, then they become aware of their feelings against the Lord. Yet, there usually seems to be a turnaround to these Psalms where there is a “but,” such as “But for you, O Lord, do I wait; it is you, O Lord my God, who will answer” (Psalm 38:15-16). Cry out to the Lord in your time of change and be honest about how you feel, but always come back to who He is and the truth of His Word.
Lean on others for support
We were made for community, and never designed to walk through this life alone. Change and transition can naturally be a challenge for us, so let others in your group life and community in Christ walk with you and carry that burden (Galatians 6:2). It also may be wise to seek the support of a pastor, counselor, or trusted friend to help you process the changes and transitions in a God-honoring way.
As we all move from what is comfortable and safe to embracing the narrow road that Christ has led us on, I am reminded of a quote from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe that I will leave with you:
“Aslan is a lion- the Lion, the great Lion."
"Ooh" said Susan. "I'd thought he was a man. Is he-quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion"...
"Safe?" said Mr. Beaver ..."Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.”
Meet the Author!
Kaitlin loves Jesus and the Word with all her heart and soul. She is wife to Landon Niles and enjoys being part of the Niles Family Crew with Troy, Nolene, and Tate! She is currently attending Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary for a Master of Theological Studies degree, with an emphasis in Biblical Counseling. She also serves in our CRBC Student Ministry and leads 6-9th grade girls. Apart from Jesus, she loves dogs, cooking, reading, and The Chosen!