Flowing with the Inevitable Changing Life

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 NIV

One thing in life is for certain...change.  This week, I received news about two co-workers moving on to other positions.  Both very surprising, yet my astonishment was met with two different reactions.  One with indifference, the other with sadness and yet both with regret?  Both had been at the company less than a year and I worked closely with each.  I never assumed the mid-day gripes about work politics, fussy software applications or policy restrictions would lead them both to suddenly quit.

In my mind, I wondered had I been kind enough?  Had I treated each of them with respect? What could I do now?  Regardless of how I felt or how many questions I had about my own actions, they still were leaving.  I couldn't stop the inevitable, the CHANGE. I had to adjust to something new whether I liked it or not.  Living this life, in this world, in this society changes are expected.  

Technology changes almost every year (or less).  As soon as you buy a cell phone, its virtually out-of-date.  The rules of the nation change constantly.  Many things ruled illegal 20 years ago are now very legal and worth a taxable profit.  (Now that's funny!)  What's in is out, what's out is in, what's hot, what's not..it all changes so fast. And with the internet, fast has become warp speed!

Change is inevitable and it happens all the TIME. However, when it comes to us individually...our own little private domains, why is change so hard?  Do we get so set in our ways that we neglect to see the possibilities of a new, better reality?  Are we afraid to believe that there is something greater in the future?  Or do we think that the best has already been accomplished?

Does change mean failure?  Does change mean progress? Does lack of change show too much pride?  Or not enough pride?  I could ask hundreds of questions and can only answer a few regarding my own situation.  One thing is for certain, IT IS UNCOMFORTABLE. Anything new will be and if its not, then what is being faced is nothing new.  Maybe that's reason enough not to change?

However, to grow, we all must be willing bow, stretch, flex and expand through the challenges that life bring. Everything and anything that grows, changes (nature is a great example).  Our willingness and flexibility to "go with the flow" of changing situations determines how we progress through it.  I firmly believe that if we aren't growing or progressing, then something in our camp needs to change.  And more than likely, it's you, individually. 

Here is the good news for us (if we take it).  God is the only One I know that never changes. The Bible says in Hebrews 13:8, Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.  God is Love...God is faithful..God is Our Helper and God Loves you and wants you to grow.   He said,  Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”  Deuteronomy 31:6.  He is consistent through all of the changes!

If you are still here (living) and not progressing or not willing to change, I challenge you to let go of the familiar and trust The Lord through your situation. You will have to adjust, but whatever the adjustment may be..I guarantee there is something far greater waiting for you on the other side.