Transformation Through Bold Change Fuels Growth!
Photo taken by Lisa Stenger
Do you view change as an opportunity for growth, serving your Creator in response to a new calling He may be offering you?
Often, I hear a friend express a desire for a Bible study or Sunday school topic to help them grow in their faith. They mention wishing for the pastor to challenge and stretch them. However, I’ve noticed that many don’t take the time to complete the study homework. They attend the group study sessions but don’t do any additional Scripture reading or take responsibility for applying what they are learning beyond class or small-group time.
When we say we want such challenges, do we truly mean it? Do we genuinely want the Holy Spirit to push us into uncomfortable territory? Are we ready for God to call us to something beyond what we believe we are capable of? Let’s be honest, it is much easier to remain where we are, with our feet planted firmly, cuddled in our place of comfort, out of fear of falling flat on our faces or failing at what God calls us to.
The stages of growth begin to develop when God's purpose or mission for you changes or redirects you in an unexpected way. How God uses you can change as you move through life’s seasons.
God is always trying to do “New” things with you. You can choose to accept the path or remain comfortable in what you always do and how you always live your daily life. Many of us choose to remain in the safe zone. I truly believe we have daily opportunities to serve God, and we only see what we are open to. We often avoid or miss the signs God puts in our path. Change is woven into God’s mission to bring about your growth.
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
(Isaiah 43:19 NIV)
God uses change to transform us by renewing our hearts and minds. As you pray, live out Scripture, and surround yourself with a faith community, you will recognize when His Spirit calls and guides you. This connection will help you discern His calling. It may feel like a pull toward something deeper, a strong yearning to take action; it can be something totally out of your comfort zone. However, it is ultimately for His good or for the benefit of someone else aligned with God’s will.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
(Romans 12:2 NIV)
Photo taken by Lisa Stenger
God uses us all for His purpose, transforming lives for His glory. We become instruments of his greater plans beyond what we feel we are capable or worthy of. God uses all our situations to prepare us for a role that is yet to come. You’ll never know how he’ll use today’s situation to help someone else in the future. Praise God, for He remains faithful amidst the changes, as transformation can be awkward, painful, and downright uncomfortable at times.
“I the Lord do not change.” (Malachi 3:6a NIV)
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV)
As life shifts and changes, guiding us toward new purposes, you can trust in His plan. He will remain by your side, never abandoning you. Even when life feels different, God remains the same.
God uses life changes to draw us closer to Him. Allow Him to grow you into His likeness and equip you with all you need to fulfill His purposes. Growth happens during uncomfortable times and struggles. Trust His leading and be open to walking through the transition with purpose. Find peace knowing God is transforming you into his beautiful creation.
Photo by Lisa Stenger
God of Change,
Help me to be bold and open to change. Lead me toward your purpose and plans for me. Keep me close to you as I face challenges in my transformation. You know my fears and weaknesses. I lay them before you, ready to be different in heart and mind. Make me new, ready to be led by your Spirit, through your good and perfect will. Amen!
RESOURCE:
Check out Session 4, titled “Beloved Breakthrough to Purposefulness: Letting Go Towards Transformation,” of “True Reflection: Focusing on Your Precious Identity with Purpose.” A 5-session women’s Bible study.
