Change

Ecclesiastes 3:1 says "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." (KJV). In this third chapter Solomon is reflecting on life, and the fact that it has seasons. For instance in verse four he writes "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;" (KJV). Solomon notes in this chapter that we face changes, and that God has a design for them all.

Each of us go through changes in our lives, and some are not ones we would have chosen for ourselves. Nevertheless, they occur, and we have no control over them. For instance, maybe you have been fired, or lost your job in a mass lay off, and you had planned on retiring from the position you held. Maybe you applied for a position that you were totally qualified for, but did not get the job. Maybe your place of employment is forcing you to relocate, and you are upset because you are happy where you are now. Maybe your spouse decided they wanted a divorce, maybe your fiance called off your wedding, or your boyfriend/girlfriend decided to end your relationship.  There are many changes that occur in our lives that we have no power over, but we do have the ability to determine how we are going to view, respond, and react to these changes.

The first thing we need to do is remember that God has a plan for our lives, he is all knowing, he wants what is best for us, and that he loves us very much. We don't always know the reasons for the changes brought about in our lives, nor do we understand them, but often they are for the best, and we just don't realize it at the time. For example, let's say you applied for a job that can be potentially dangerous, and you didn't get it, ever thought it possible that you didn't get it because God stepped in and saved your life? Let's say you are a good Christian who lives a Godly life, and for no apparent reason you are laid off from a job you loved where you worked among others just like yourself. Has it ever occurred to you that maybe God wants to relocate you in order for you and your Godly manner of living to serve as a witness to others? If your spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend, or fiance left you, keep your chin up,  God will bring the right person into your life at the right time, and when he does it will be someone that will treat you with the love and respect that you deserve. Remember only God knows what the future holds. These are just a few examples of change that can occur in our lives, but whatever the change for whatever the reason it is important for us to trust God, and keep a good attitude as we go through it.

The next time you face a major change in your life, that you have no control over, let me encourage you to view it in a positive light. Change is inevitable, we cannot always control it, we don't always like it, but we should not let it steal our peace and joy. Most often fear of the unknown is what causes us to dread change, so as you face it remember God tells us in Isaiah 41:10 not to fear, and that he is with us. Don't cling to the past fearing, and dreading the change that is in front of you, move on with an open heart and an open mind, excited about the wonderful things God has in store for you. Who knows, you may find that a change you feared, and dreaded so desperately turns out to be one of the best things that has ever happened to you.

If you have a prayer request and would like me to pray for you leave me a message, and I will be more than happy to do so. May God bless you!