When we experience an unexpected change in life, such as loss of a relationship or job, or death of a loved one, we are often left feeling alone and scared. Things seem out of our control. You might find yourself wrestling with questions like, “How can I deal with changes in life?” “How can I navigate through these rough times?” “Where is God when I need him?”
When the unexpected happens, here’s how you can navigate it:
How to deal with changes in life
While we may not always like it, change is inevitable. The good news is that change is also a natural part of life and part of God’s plan to help us grow.
Acknowledge your feelings
Significant changes in life can result in many emotions, sometimes conflicting. It can be hard to address and acknowledge all those feelings - after all, the demands of everyday life don’t just go away!
Sometimes, the unknown is the most terrifying thing about life changes. The Bible tells us “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (Deuteronomy 31:8). Even in the unknown, we are never alone. Bring your burdens and fears to God. He understands our pain.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” (Psalm 34:18)
Just as God gives us grace, give yourself grace during this journey.
Trust in God’s plan for you
When difficult changes occur, lean into your faith. Even unexpected paths lead to God’s good plan. Trust in God’s plan and remember he is always in control.
In Jeremiah 29:11, God says, "For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.’” God said this to the Israelites, who were going through an incredibly difficult circumstance—but it serves as a powerful reminder for us as well. Many life circumstances are out of our control, but we can control how we respond to them. Stay in faith when changes flip your world upside down. If you seek God’s will, he will guide you.
Find comfort in God’s Word
When unexpected changes have you feeling lost, it’s important to keep staying close to God and clinging to his promises. And he gives us easy access to these things in the Bible!
There are so many stories of people who walked through difficult seasons and changes in life - each one a reminder that you’re not alone, and God is working through your situation too. Here are just a few of them:
- David - The shepherd boy who became king faced many changes including great victories (defeating Goliath) and personal failures
- Peter - The disciple who denied knowing Jesus eventually became a founder of the early church
- Zacchaeus - The tax collector who was disliked because he cheated changed his life when Jesus acknowledged him
- Ruth - The widow who followed her mother-in-law became mother to the family line of David and Jesus
- Jonah - The prophet who disobeyed God’s instructions (and survived being swallowed by a whale!) later repented
The apostle Paul said, “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) The strong feelings that come when dealing with changes in life can make you forget what God promised. In Matthew 14:22-32, Peter was able to walk on water only when he focused on what Jesus said. When he got distracted by the waves and endless ocean, he began to sink. Similarly, if you get distracted by the fears and what-ifs of your situation, you will sink.
Rely on community and support
You will find that there are many people in your church and community who have experienced similar situations and can lend support. The Bible tells us “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9)
Joining a Group at LCBC is a great way to meet people that understand what you’re going through. From mental health to divorce to grief, we have all kinds of Groups that can give you valuable support during some of the toughest transitions in life.
“Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” (James 5:16)
Don’t underestimate the power of prayer, either! Not only can you talk directly to God and seek his support, but the prayers of others can make a big difference. A prayer doesn’t need to be formal - just talk to God and ask for peace, clarity, and guidance.
Take practical steps to adjust to change
Once you are over the initial shock that comes with significant change, making a plan will help you feel productive. This may include setting new routines or adjusting your expectations.
Take practical steps - this will help you focus on what you can control: your attitude, your actions, and your response to change. The Bible says “Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.” (Proverbs 16:3) Making a conscious choice to focus only on what’s in your control - and entrusting God with it - will help you grow through the change, rather than letting your circumstances just happen to you.
Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
The apostle Paul tells us “And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” (Philippians 4:8) When all the negative aspects of the change you are facing fill your head, take time to list the things you are thankful for. Shift your thoughts to a positive perspective, even if it seems impossible at first.
Look forward to new possibilities
While change can be difficult, it also brings the promise of new opportunities. Embrace the chance to find new adventures, relationships, purposes, and new faith in God as you realize that he will never leave you.
For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland. (Isaiah 43:19)
God uses change to shape our character, so be open to what he’s teaching you. His plan may not happen like you expect, but his plans are always for our good!
Rest assured, “for everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). This change might be uncomfortable, but with God’s help, you can handle it. Embrace new changes, knowing that God is always with you. The result will be a deeper faith, spiritual growth, and exciting new opportunities.
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Changes in life can sometimes bring feelings of anxiety and fear. Here are 14 Bible verses to help you keep them at bay!
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LCBC stands for Lives Changed By Christ. We are one church in multiple locations across Pennsylvania. Find the location closest to you or join us for Church Online. We can’t wait to connect with you!