Change is often a reoccurring theme in our lives. A thousand miles out the mountain of change seems easy to conquer, but the closer we get the more overwhelming it seems. It may seem as if the biggest mountain is on the horizon. Each moment that passes brings us closer and closer to the foot of the great shadow that has been hovering for weeks. The hope that we now rely on is the impenetrable force of an Almighty God who sees beyond just this mountain. He sees the previously conquered giants and the future impending battles. Psalms 46:1-2 says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea.” Despite all the change and questions that we face we are given this promise. God is our refuge and strength.
We can never see the big picture fully, but it must be beautiful. A landscape filled with mountains and valleys. Behind us is a flat and shady path. This path looks appeasing and easy, but it leads to a painful existence forever. We choose the challenge because of the One that we come to know and love on the path in front of us. There is a strength none can perceive. This Being walks behind us, lives in us, and goes ahead of us. We choose this path in obedience to Him who calls us. In Matthew 11:28-29 Jesus calls, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Romans 8:38-39 presents another promise: “For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” So we find that not only do we have a refuge despite all the change, but we also have love and comfort in the midst of our trials.
In our lives faith is required, joy is required, love is required. There is something I have learned of these three actions. They are all working together and they are not based upon feeling, but upon a Truth that stands the test of time. Therefore, though it is tough and we may not want the mountains, we can embrace change knowing that it leads to something greater. Hebrews 10:23 declares, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” The Lord God places change in our lives to deepen our relationship with Him. Christ works within us and brings us through each change that we face. Therefore, we cry, “Great is Thy faithfulness.” (Smoker, 2015)
Connection:
- How does faith, joy, and love contribute to facing life’s challenges, and why are these actions not based on feelings?
- Can you recall a time when you experienced God’s refuge or strength during a difficult situation? How did that experience impact your faith?
- Have you ever chosen the harder path because you knew it would bring you closer to God, even if it wasn’t the easiest option? What was the outcome of that choice?
