Change. For some, just the word itself causes anxiety or even panic. For most, it's at least a bit unsettling to think of altering status quo, even if the change is something positive and exciting. I'm somewhere in the middle, between unsettled and panicked, I guess. I've lived long enough to know God will see me through, but I usually have to remind myself of that over and over again as I see a life change on the horizon, and I feel uncomfortable. Depending on the situation, I may even grieve over what's happening.
I find myself in a situation like that right now. Tomorrow, my life will drastically change. My son, whom I have educated at home since preschool, will begin 11th grade in a local public school. There are many reasons for this, but the overarching reason is that God has definitely and undoubtedly led our family in this way.
There are all kinds of ways this affects my heart, my mind, my soul, my schedule. I won't go into all that at this time, because my feelings about this may make no sense to anyone but me. Perhaps you think, "What's the big deal?" And I get that. Different situations hit different people in different ways.
Something we all have in common, though, is that we all face uncomfortable change. Today I'm referring to the kinds of changes you anticipate, not the unexpected tragedies that hit us out of the blue, sending us reeling (though practicing the following things regularly can certainly only help in those times, too).
1. Let yourself feel what you feel. Whatever it is--take time to feel it, good and/or bad. Be honest. Don't try to stuff down your emotions, which does more harm than good. It is cleansing and healthy to feel. To emote. Obviously, we shouldn't use our circumstances as an excuse for a pity party, but most of us know the difference between a pity party and true emotion. I have shed many a tear over the summer, as I have sorted through and packed away books and supplies that represent a huge part of my heart and my life. My past life. Feeling ridiculous most of the time, I have had to remind myself to remain honest about how I feel.
2. Try to make a plan. Figure out ahead of time, as much as you can, how you will handle the coming change when it arrives. Depending on the type of change, this planning might literally be a matter of survival. Other times, you may have more flexibility. Either way, a plan helps you feel more confident about what's ahead.
3. Talk to the people you trust. Friends, family, a therapist--open up to at least one trusted person. Talk through your thoughts and feelings regarding the upcoming change. Even if all they do is listen, you will likely feel more clear-headed after talking it out. But your trusted peeps may have some wise insights for you as well!
These last two pertain to people of faith:
4. Pray, pray, pray! There is so much power in prayer, and a great deal can be accomplished on all levels through faithful prayer. Pray alone, and ask others to pray with and for you!
5. Fill your mind with truth. It's so important to dwell on what is true, so those emotions don't take the wheel and steer us in the wrong direction. Emotions are real, but they aren't always based on truth, and they certainly can't be depended on to empower our decision-making.
The Bible is the source of truth. It is immeasurably valuable to read it, study it, memorize it, and meditate on it. Here are some suggested verses for when you are facing transitions in your life:
Hebrews 13:8
Isaiah 43:19
Joshua 1:9
Malachi 3:6
Psalm 18:2
And here are a few Christian books, with biblical insights, I would recommend for your encouragement:
A Confident Heart, by Renee Swope
Calm My Anxious Heart, by Linda Dillow
If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat, by John Ortberg
Anticipating change can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be debilitating. If any of these tips have worked for you, or if you have more to add, please tell me about it in the comments. It's great when we all learn from each other!
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