We can’t escape changes

23 Apr

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up. (Isaiah 43:19a)

Change is inevitable. In fact, life is a never-ending series of twists and turns. Growing up takes about 20 years; growing into the person God wants takes a lifetime. We can’t escape changes, but we can learn to make the most of them. Here’s how:
- Identify the issues. Separate the aspects you have some control over from those you don’t, and commit all aspects to God, who is ultimately in control of everything.
- Understand the issues. Differentiate between the practical aspects and the emotional, and deal with each accordingly. Together they may seem overwhelming, but individually they are usually manageable.
- Keep an open mind. What you’ve been doing or the way you’ve been doing it may have worked reasonably well so far, but there may be better alternatives.
- Enlist God’s help. Circumstances may overwhelm you, but God cannot be overwhelmed. “There are some things that people cannot do, but God can.” That’s the God factor.
- Stay positive. Focus on the opportunities, not the obstacles.
- Find and give support. Chances are, you’re not the only one involved.
- Be patient. Progress is often a three-step process—one step back and two steps forward.
- Think long-term. “He [God] who has begun a good work in you will complete it.” [1] A