Monday, December 1, 2008

Seasons of change, seasons of courage

I don't know about you but I'm a creature of habit. Give me good old predictability any day and I'll leave the surprises for those who enjoy living on the edge.

I think we can all attest though, that once in a while life will throw an unexpected change or turn of events in our direction. The kind that makes not only our routine come to an end but sometimes as much as our current way of life.

In the midst of unexpected changes, big or small, we need to muster up the courage to face them head on.

After all, change can be threatening. It can rob us of our peace of mind, comfort and health. Things like moving, changing jobs or losing a job, mourning a loved one, coping with a newly diagnosed health issue, a sudden empty nest, and so on.

As always, God is aware of our need for courage and wisdom during all of our seasons of change. He doesn't want us to go it alone but with His help.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7

Courage in the midst of change is not always easy to come by but we must remind ourselves that as children of our Heavenly Father, we are never alone in any of it. If you're in one of those seasons at this time, be encouraged that the Lord is with you today and always.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

17 comments:

Lib said...

Hi,
I don't like change, but htis yr. we have faced change everyway we've turned! Dh lost his job etc.
We've always leaned on God, but this yr. we've really LEarned to lean on God!
Hope you have a great wk.
Blessins',Lib

Carol said...

Melody,
Thank you for writing such a wonderful post today. These scriptures are so powerful & comforting.
Blessings & hugs,
Carol

Joanne Sher said...

Not a big change fan either -- but I've learned to accept it and remember it is from the Lord. Excellent word - and thanks for commenting on my blog!

Linda said...

I guess I'm in the majority - I really don't like change. However, your post is so encouraging and so wise. Change is something that comes to all of us, and the Father always gives us the grace we need for every situation. We just need to receive it.

Abounding Treasures said...

Melody,

These words are a great reminder of the comfort and care of the One who allows change to come into our lives, knowing that He is always near, to carry us through every circumstance in His everlasting arms!

Thanks for the Blogiversary wishes you left for me :o)

Blessings ...

Diane@Diane's Place said...

Wise words indeed. I guess I tend to take the middle ground. I like to learn new things and travel, etc. but I also like my daily routine for the most part.

Hope you have a great week, Melody!

Love and blessings,

Diane

Susan B said...

A very good post! I don't always like change, but it is inevitable in life. Thank you for sharing the scripture, and the reminder that God is always with us in detail of our life.

Gretchen said...

Learning slowly but surely to hold fast to faith and loosely to all else. Thank you for this encouraging post.

Momzoo said...

I am a habit girl too, when something doesn't go as it should (or how I think it should) it throws me off.

This is something I need to work on.

Carol said...

Hi Melody,
Thanks for stopping by to see my Santa collection! Here's the answer to your question about the purple Santa. I bought him at Hallmark many years ago during the 1/2 price after Christmas sale because he was very unique, plus there is an old nickel on the bottom & purple was my son's high school color.
Smiles,
Carol

Elena said...

Beautful post and thanks for the encouragement. I am in a good, anticipated change in my life, I am home raising my only child and I am 48! But I have had really hard changes in my life and I can say a hardy amen to what you have shared!

Nanette said...

Hi Melody,
Change has been part of my life for so long with parents that moved often and Coast Guard wife. I look forward to eventually having a permanent home in heaven. Thanks for reminding us to draw near to God during change.
Valerie

50s Housewife said...

What a timely post for me. My husband is contemplating a job change and frankly, I'm scared! These are the times when I'm driven to me knees. Thanks for the encouragement.

HOPE said...

Thank you for stopping by and leaving your encouraging comment. I appreciate it very much.

This post is all to prevalent for me...an empty nester...who has taken this "season" with courage!
Not easy, missing my five who all have moved a good distance. But, the LORD is ever present and my comforter of all.

Your words were perfect.

Thank you..
HOPE

Kathi~Lavender, Lace and Thyme said...

Melody,

As I'm trying to catch up on my bloggie visits I have to tell you how much this spoke to me this morning. I am truly blessed by your words and choice of scripture today, thank you so much.

Have a blessed day,
Kathi :)

MARGARETE said...

This verse (Be Strong and of a good Courage) is one of my favorites. I have read it over and over and over again and it is in the front of my bible. We may have some changes in our life soon.

Mandi said...

Thank you for writing this! I needed to read this the moment I came across your blog...my hubby and I just moved due to a new job, and it has been stressful. I've learned so much in the past few months that God is truly in control, but there are those times of weakness that we as humans are bound to have. Just as I was feeling weak, I read this post, and your words meant a lot. Thank you!