I am a person of roots and routine. Are you?
Do you grieve when it’s time to leave one community for another, because emotional attachments have grown deep?
Do you take comfort in familiar routine, because you can move forward with confidence?
Then you’ll understand this statement: I am a person who struggles with change.
So this post is for me, to review what I know about accepting–even celebrating–change. You’re welcome to read over my shoulder.
First and foremost: I need to be selective of vocabulary, even in my thoughts. Thoughts impact attitudes; attitudes impact soul and spirit. For example:
- Instead of change, I need to speak of the circumstances as an adventure.
- Instead of problem, I should say possibility.
- Instead of challenge, I can call the situation an opportunity.
Such a small commitment, really. But retooling my word-choices could have a profound impact on my spirit.
First, the change I don’t want to embrace takes on a glowing, new aura when I rename it adventure—the adventure of participating with God to bring about his good purpose (Romans 8:28). Such thinking would surely foster excitement!
Second, the problem I see is nothing compared to the possibilities God is capable of. “God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams” (Ephesians 3:20, The Message)! As I consider the possibilities, hope and anticipation will flourish.
Third, the challenge I find so uncomfortable will undoubtedly provide opportunity to see God’s power and provision at work. Perhaps I’ll witness a whole string of God-engineered events. Or, the power and provision may occur in me, as he molds my personality and spirit into a more Christ-like version. (That is even more miraculous!) And who would turn aside from seeing—even participating in—a miracle?
It begins with my words.
* * * * * * * * * *
This might sound strange to some, but thank you, Father, for the uncomfortable changes, challenges, and disappointments you’ve brought into my life. Not one of them was without purpose. Forgive me for the times I have fretted about how circumstances would turn out. How easy it is for me to forget that you hold all things in your hands.
May I anticipate the adventure, the possibilities, and the opportunities of each day, NO MATTER WHAT, because you are by my side–my all-powerful, all-wise, all-loving God. Thank you for the promise that you WILL fill me completely with joy and peace as I trust in you. Then I can overflow with hope (Romans 15:13).
(Photo credit: www.desiremercy.wordpress.com.)
From the Inside Out 
Nancy,
What a Blessed and wonderful wording to your thoughts.How the Holy Spirit is working in your move. Trusting God to send a miracle in you and Steve’s new adventure with Him.
Love, Janet
Thank you, Janet. There are many positives to this upcoming change–more time with Steve and family being at the top of the list. But there are also questions about the unknowns that like to run around in my head! Yes, it is going to be a glorious adventure to see how God orchestrates the details. Thank you VERY much for your prayers, dear Janet!
Thanks Nancy, this was a helpful post for me. May God bless you during this time of transition – please let me know how I can encourage you, too.
Thank you, Russell. One of the unknowns you will understand: What will it be like, not to be identified with ministry/pastorate? Allow me to practice my new vocabulary: Diving into the sphere of a new identity can be a grand adventure of possibility and opportunity! (Now THAT sounds quite enticing, I must admit!)
Nancy, thank you for another beautiful message. Having moved across the country several times, I can definitely relate to your feelings. You and Steve have been such a blessing to me through your friendship and your ministry. I will miss you both but I know God has wonderful new opportunities waiting for you. Our loss will truly be gain and a blessing to many others. My prayer is that God will continue to bless you both and may you have an extraordinary and wonderful retirement.
Thank you, Ruth, for your heart-warming encouragement. As I said to Janet above, there are many positives to this upcoming change. The questions about the unknowns just give me opportunity to embrace adventure and new possibilities. God has ALWAYS blessed; he will continue to do so!
I will miss you, but you have the greatest opportunity to be with your love ones. I moved to this area 25 years ago from Pinellas County to be with my 5 year old granddaughter, it was a time I will always remember. Watching her growing up to be a young woman. The memories are always within my heart. I got to spend precious time with her. She is now 30, but lives close in Tampa. We still do things together. I feel a bond with her that can never be replaced. You will love the adventure while making memories.
Thank you, Laura. Your story gives me great anticipation of building that kind of relationship with our little granddaughter. The fact that you are still creating memories with your granddaughter is heart-warming and encouraging!
Whew…I needed this one!! Just at the right time! Thank you!
I’m so glad you found the post meaningful and timely! I pray all is well with you and yours.
“Thoughts impact attitudes; attitudes impact soul and spirit.” So true, Nancy. I gather from the other comments that you are making a major move. I will pray for a smooth transition for you. I know that you will be a huge blessing to the people that our Lord is preparing to enter your sphere of influence. Grace and peace to you during this adventurous time! 🙂
You gathered correctly, Rebeca! Steve is retiring and we’re leaving Florida, after forty years, to move to the Midwest. We’ll be near our sons and their families. There is much to look forward to, but some uncertainties as well. Thank you very much for your prayers and encouragement, blogger friend!
Adventure works for me! I love that word. I think I have slowly learning to accept that all life is change. I have learned that I need time to switch gears, then am ok with what ever is transforming. trying to be more gentle with myself during transitions, knowing some grief work has to occur with the loss of the old as we enter the new. good thoughts here, Nancy. you are making me think tonight. LOL
You are right–life is full of changes. I so appreciate your attitude, trying to be more gentle with yourself during transitions. Good advice–I’ll take it! Thank you, Jean!
Adventure….key word. I need to remember that in the small changes I am facing! Change always causes questions and fear of the unknown. Maybe an adventure would make it less stressful and more exciting! You are so right. It’s all about attitude. Enjoy your new adventures and get back to us soon 🙂
Thank you, Tresa. Right now we’re in the middle of the packing-adventure! Reached Box #138 today. Woo-hoo!
Until a few years ago I had always been a ‘glass half-empty’ person. At work they encouraged us to view ‘challenges as opportunities’… In that context it felt more like they were putting a positive ‘spin’ on what could potentially be a very upsetting situation. BUT when you view ‘challenges as opportunities’ in the sense of spiritual growth…trusting that God has our best interests at heart…it makes all the difference. As an added benefit…I have become more flexible when my ‘plans’ have suddenly been disrupted…because when God allows a disruption…His plans are always better and more fulfilling than my own! And, dear friend, I’m remembering you and Steve in prayer as you make this wonderful transition!
Thank you, Cheri! Yes, indeed, flexibility is a big part of embracing change. Blessed are the flexible–for the reason you highlighted! Thank you also for your prayers. So far so good on the packing (almost done) and the myriad of other details that must be taken care of. The end is definitely in sight!