Be Strong and Courageous in Times of Change and Uncertainty

Finding Wisdom and Guidance amid Transition

In our journey with Jesus, there are essential components that contribute to our relationship with Him. These include reading our Bible, prayer, and worship. Each person may excel in different areas, with some finding strength in prayer, others in praise, and others in studying the Scriptures. While there is more to a relationship with the Lord, these three aspects play a significant role in our growth and understanding of Him.

Recently, I found myself faced with a major life change - moving to a new town and home, changing jobs, and finding a new Church. The thought of leaving my familiar surroundings, places where I was comfortable, established, and happy, along with the uncertainty of what lay ahead, brought about mixed emotions. I had lived in my current house for 14 years, and it had become a haven of security, stability, and love. However, change is inevitable, and I needed to embrace it with faith and trust in the Lord. I have known the Lord for a long time. I know that He can handle anything. I know that He knows what is best and I do not. But I was feeling a lot of emotions: sadness, anger, anxiety, and disgust. (One day I will tell you what Holy Spirit said to me about "disgust".)

Prayer became my refuge during this time of transition. And praise helped me move from fear to trust. I asked God for His guidance and wisdom, seeking His confirmation that this move was aligned with His plan. At my house, I do what my husband says (for the most part). So if he says "We're moving", well, we're moving. Since I know that he is not inclined to seek the Lord on things, I prayed more and more fervently. Lord! If this is not Your will, please block it!! Needless to say, the Lord did NOT block it, so here we are! New town, new home, new job, new Church, new friends, new ministry.

As I faced doubts and worries about the upcoming changes, I reminded myself of the story of Joshua in the Bible. Joshua was about to lead God's people into a new land filled with promises. In the Book of Joshua, God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous, to keep His words always on his lips, and to follow His commands. This powerful message resonated with me - that God was leading me into the land He had prepared for me. He promised to be with me every step of the way.

With this assurance in mind, I decided to face the future with strength and courage, keeping my eyes on Jesus. Instead of dwelling on anxiety and uncertainty, I resolved to focus on Jesus and His truth. I chose to speak words of faith and trust, mindful of His commandments, and confident in His faithfulness.

Change, especially when it involves leaving behind what is familiar, can be unsettling. However, through prayer, reading the scriptures, and worshiping, we find the strength and wisdom to navigate through these transitions. Just as Joshua trusted in God's guidance, we too can be strong and courageous during times of change. By keeping His words in our hearts and on our lips, we can face every new chapter of our lives with confidence, knowing that God is faithful to lead us into the land He has prepared for us. May we all find encouragement in His promises and have the courage to embrace the unknown.

Embrace change with faith and trust, for God is leading you to great things! He who began a good work in you is faithful to bring it to completion. Philippians 1:6.

All my Love,

Leslie~