Growing Stronger Through Change - A Deeper Dive
Scripture: Isaiah 43:18-19 | James 4:14
We’re Back!
Yes, after a bit of a hiatus, we’ve returned to bring you our weekly blog, A Deeper Dive. It's quite fitting that we chose this week to return, as Don’s message this past Sunday was all about change, a topic that is quite relevant for our community right now.
A change in circumstances caused the interruption in producing our weekly blog. As was pointed out this week, sometimes we must be willing to adapt to a new way of doing things. So, while we hope to return to regular weekly installments of A Deeper Dive, we will remain flexible with our expectations. We’re glad to be back, and we hope you enjoy this week’s edition.
Message Summary
In his message this week, Don discussed the importance of embracing change as a fundamental part of spiritual growth and maturity. Change, no matter how difficult, is both a promise and a command from God, orchestrated to bring us closer to Him.
A link to the full video of Don’s message can be found below, but here are some of the key points:
Change as a Fundamental Part of Spiritual Growth - Change of any kind can cause confusion and discomfort. However, embracing change is not just about adjusting to new circumstances but proactively seeking change as a fundamental part of God's plan for our spiritual growth and maturity.
Biblical Examples of Change - The Bible contains numerous examples of transformative changes culminating in higher divine purposes. For instance, the story of Abraham provides an example of how God's call to change can lead to greater blessings and a deeper understanding of His plan. Abraham was called to leave his home and go to an unknown land, setting the stage for something bigger—to bless every family in the world.
Recognizing and Responding to Signs of Change - As we consider our daily lives and the constant ebb and flow of circumstances and events, we need to recognize the signs of God doing new things within and around us. Shifts in jobs, new relationships, or ministry opportunities are all evidence of God’s work in our lives. Knowing they are signs from God, we should respond with faith, openness, trust, and cautious enthusiasm rather than fear.
Moving Forward with Urgency and Aligning with God's Timing - As we read in the scripture from James, our lives are fleeting, so there is urgency in seizing opportunities God gives us. We must make the most of every opportunity and actively spread the love and truth of Christ, as the world desperately needs hope and healing. However, we must also balance our actions with trust in God's perfect timing.
Letting Go of Traditions and Habits - Finally, we must not allow traditions and habits to become obstacles that hinder our ability to see and act on the new things God is doing. The parable of the Good Samaritan illustrates how Jesus challenged traditions to reveal a more heart-focused model of worship and relationship with God. Let’s have the courage to evaluate whether our traditions and practices are helping us grow spiritually, love others, and love God, and willingly let go of the ones that do not.
A Season of Change
By nature, we aren’t very good at handling change, especially when it’s initiated outside of our control. When our routines and expectations are disrupted, we often respond with frustration and sometimes lash out with anger. “Everything was going along just fine. Why did it have to change?” We lament that we will surely be worse off as a result of the change.
What is at the root of our inability or unwillingness to accept change? Perhaps it’s a belief that we are no longer in control. When someone else imposes a change to our circumstances, we lose our sense of self-determination. Maybe it’s uncertainty: “We’ve never done it this way before.” Or, our resistance may be the result of how suddenly a change has come. Let’s face it, we don’t like surprises, especially if they impact our established routines.
Regardless of the underlying cause of discomfort, change is inevitable. What doesn’t change is God’s role in our lives and His command to love one another. It is perfectly reasonable to mourn the loss of something we consider an integral part of our lives, but ultimately, mourning must give way to acceptance. As Don’s illustration of the parking spot suggests, sometimes it’s necessary, even healthy, to see things from a different perspective. Only then can we gain new insights and appreciate new experiences.
Growing Stronger Through Change - Full Sermon Video