From Stress to Strength: Embracing Change

We all have to deal with change daily.

There are various types of big and small changes that we face throughout our lives.

Some may have a large impact on our lives, like where we work, who we marry, or choosing to raise a child.

Other changes may have more minor impacts, like our favorite show being canceled or our favorite food no longer being available at the grocery store.

Both types can impact our lives but to significantly different degrees.

Embracing the Emotions of Change

Our feelings about change can vary greatly depending on whether we initiated the change or if it was thrust upon us.

When changes are forced upon us by others’ choices or situations, they can be particularly challenging to handle. This stress is compounded by the impact of the change and our emotional response. We might experience intense fear, anxiety, anger, and sorrow when faced with changes we did not initiate.

On the other hand, changes we initiate tend to evoke more positive emotions, such as hope and joy, as we look forward to the opportunities they may bring. While there may still be some stress, including fear or anxiety, it is often less intense because we feel more in control and purposeful about the changes, whether they are aimed at improving our own lives or those of our loved ones.

Luckily, we are not alone in how we feel. God and our friendships can help us through these times, providing valuable support and encouragement. Together, we can navigate change and draw strength from our spiritual connections. To explore more about the power of spiritual friendships, visit Together We Thrive.

Additionally, incorporating practices like meditation can be beneficial in managing stress and fostering emotional well-being during periods of change. To learn more about the spiritual benefits of meditation, check out Spiritual Benefits of Meditation

Uplifting Scriptures for Encouragement

No matter what type of change you are encountering right now, many encouraging scriptures can help you focus on God and build your hope during these transitions. Whether you initiated the change or it was thrust upon you, these verses offer comfort and strength.

Here are a few to hold on to:

Change is a part of life

For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.

Ecclesiastes 3:1

God is in control no matter the changes we encounter

I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.

Whatever is has already been,
and what will be has been before;
and God will call the past to account.

Ecclesiastes 3:14-15

And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God’s purpose is that people should fear him.

What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before, because God makes the same things happen over and over again.

God takes care of us physically, spiritually, and emotionally

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?  

Matthew 6:25-30

God does not change

Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

James 1:17

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

hebrews 13:8

God knows how to help you handle this change

Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
    do not depend on your own understanding.

Seek his will in all you do,
    and he will show you which path to take.

Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.
    Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.

Then you will have healing for your body
    and strength for your bones.

proverbs 3:5-7

God comforts us through these changes

Even when I walk through the darkest valley,

I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.

Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.

psalm 13:4

As you navigate the changes in your life, hold onto these scriptures and seek out others to reinforce your confidence that, by relying on God, you will find the strength and support needed to face whatever comes next.