Peace in the Change

We have all been through change at some point in our lives. Moving to a new school or new

house, changes in sports teams or family members, maybe losing old friends but gaining new ones. Since we have all been through some kind of change in our lives, we all know how difficult change can be.

Change may leave us doubting ourselves and sometimes even our God. Throughout high school, I went through many different friend group changes. These changes led to questioning those around me, claiming to be someone I could count on, as well as wondering if maybe I was the reason my friends changed and became less close than they used to be. This wondering and doubt can lead to a buildup of anger and pain, not only towards those around us but also towards ourselves. Job 5:2 says, “For anger kills a fool, and jealousy slays the gullible.” When this happens, we may start doubting the plan God has in place for our lives. This is not the life God wants for us. He doesn’t want us to waver in our faith in His plan.

After many nights of wondering what would come of the group I once was close with, as well as trying to figure out how to handle the many changes, I finally found peace. Most of us are probably familiar with the popular verse in Jeremiah 29:11, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’” I heard this at church one Sunday, in the midst of my worrying and doubting, and I finally began to realize how deeply I had been struggling to see God’s hand in the changes around me. By remembering that God has a perfect plan in place for our lives and it is one that is working for our good, I was able to understand that the changes my friend group was going through were going to work together for the good of us and for the good God had planned for our lives. 

Even though you may go through many changes, and even though you might not always be certain of what these changes mean for you or those around you, ground yourself in God’s purpose for your life. Remember that He is working all things together for your good. All your pain, all your doubt, all your struggle can be eased with the peace He gives us. Philippians 4:6-7 tells us not to worry about anything because Jesus gives us His peace, which surpasses all understanding.

So, whenever you find yourself doubting yourself or worrying about the constant changes that happen in this crazy world, remind yourself that you can always find peace in our Father, who gives so freely and is working everything according to His perfect plan.