How Can I Respond To All These Changes? – Don’t Be Afraid Part 5

ByJim Stephens

Scripture: Colossians 3:12-15

12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. (Colossians 3:12-15 NLT)

In recent years we’ve come through a pandemic and now in the USA we’re in an election year! The apparent outlook on politics, the economy, climate, health, and safety can change quickly, often several times in a day. It’s frustrating and confusing to try to sort through all the often-conflicting and rapidly-changing news reports!

There’s a lot we don’t know, but here’s some things we do know:

  • What was a season of change and uncertainty seems to have become the age of change and uncertainty. Change is hard, but rapid change is even harder!
  • We may not like many of the changes ahead but we’re going to have to accept them. Each time things eventually “get back to normal”, it’s a “new normal”.
  • As leaders try to adjust to changes and anticipate changes yet to come, many will make decisions that we don’t approve, or that seem unfair, or that don’t work out well and have to be changed. Let’s roll with it, friends. Pray for them.
  • Let’s live as people of faith, patience, forgiveness, and love. Let’s Be Helpers!

Actually, the stress and frustration is very similar to the way things were a few years ago when we were in the midst of a health pandemic on a scale that hadn’t been experienced before. As responsible people who are doing our best to represent God’s Kingdom, we want to know what’s true, what’s false, and what we can do with it all.

We want to know the truth and we want to do what’s right. Right?  Right!

I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. (John 14:27)

Prayer:

Father, Please stay close to us and keep us close to you. Help us to slow down and do our thinking with the higher part of our brains so we can think of others as well as ourselves and be moved by faith and not by fear. We need you! In Jesus’ Name.