I believe that God has created each of us to display His nature. Our comfort and stagnation, however, can often keep us from living a life of development and growth that is required to do so.
Much of my life has been marked by significant change. I think we all have our fair share. Recently, as a guest on a podcast (check it out here), I was asked to share my journey of faith. Each time I’m asked to share my story, it causes me to reflect on my life’s journey, which in turn, makes me think about change. As the years go by, we’re prone to contemplate what caused us to make certain decisions in life. We reflect upon the circumstances that led to those decisions and the “why’s” behind those choices.
It seems that as we get older, change becomes more difficult to embrace. We can lose some of our willingness for adventure and can also get comfortable in our routines. Routines and consistency are good, but ONLY when they fit into the current plan of God for our lives.
God’s Purposes in Change
Have you experienced, as I have, that His plan seldom includes our comfort for any long season of time? I believe God has created each of us to display His nature. Our comfort and stagnation, however, can often keep us from living a life of development and growth that is required to do so.
If our lives don’t include ongoing individual growth, it’s almost as if we are saying, “I’ve arrived and have no areas of needed improvement!” At age 70, I confess I am now more aware than ever of the many ways I need and desire God to change me! For that to occur, however, I must be willing to adapt and adjust, irrespective of my increasing years.
When I reflect on my earliest days of following Jesus, I recognize a surrendered will that sought and accepted change. Asking Him questions such as where I should live or how I was to serve others were a natural part of my faith walk. I regularly asked Him to show me my shortcomings, so that I might confess them and receive His forgiveness. I was passionate about not pursuing anything that wasn’t according to His will for my life.
In the first book offered by Q4 Impact, The Wonder of Christmas, there is a quote I love by Ellen Vaughn, author of On Becoming Elisabeth Elliot. It says, “Obedience to Christ doesn’t mean following Him to some destination. A life of obedience never really comes in for a landing.” Friends, we must keep our eyes open, and we must always be willing to obey whatever God calls us to do. No matter the cost and no matter the change it may require.
Navigating Change As We Age
I’m convinced the changes we face as we approach and enter the 4th quarter of our lives are as large as any that have come before. Our kids leave home and most marry. Many have children of their own, and many more move away. Our careers soon come to an end and our physical strength and agility decline. All of these things require us to make life-changing adjustments.
Will you choose to ask God for His direction in these changes? Will you then be willing to receive His answer with open hands? We are cheering you on in your journey of obedience to Him.
“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6, ESV). Keep on following Jesus to the very end and experience ALL He has for you to be and do throughout the last quarter of your life.
