After all, they thought Jesus would usher in a whole new kingdom instead he was murdered on a cross. Imagine the disciples when Jesus had been killed talk about a massive change they didn’t see coming! Their leader crucified?! What now? The uncertainty was enough to make them give it all up. Changing circumstances can make us want to retreat and though solitude can be important, we need others to keep us moving forward. Worship sustained David, and it sustains us.Ģ. He acknowledged God’s goodness no matter the events and assigned to God the glory due his name. We see (in Psalm 39 for instance) David aware of his changing circumstance, his fleeting life, yet confident that his hope was in the Lord. The Psalms-many of which he wrote-are full of poems of worship, acknowledging God’s faithfulness and steadfast love, turning us back regularly to God’s greatness. Whenever enemies chased King David, keeping him on the run and in a constant state of change, he often set his heart on God’s attributes. We acknowledge him as the God over all of our lives, admitting our lack of real control. Setting our hearts on the things above (Colossians 3:1) means being present in, and to, God’s Presence. So how do we maintain healthy habits in the midst of new situations or difficult challenges? What truths or actions might we cling to when we face uncertainty? What can we do to stay the course so we’re found faithful in the end while still focused on the earthly moment? To be like the Proverbs 31 woman, “clothed in dignity and strength she can laugh at (not dread) the days ahead”?ġ. Whether the smallest of change or an entire season of upheaval can test our faith and shake our trust in a God who-we know intellectually at least-has never changed.

We want rhythms that help us navigate each day even when things go haywire. I don’t know anyone who wakes up in the morning and says, bring on the change! No, we-as humans and as Christians-like routine, steady ships and familiarity that brings a sense of security in an increasingly crazy world.

But honestly, I’m not a fan of change, especially when so much of it was crammed into a single year.Īnd I don’t think I’m alone. In my head I know God has worked in each situation, forming in me, I hope, a softer heart and a clearer vision of His promise as Emmanuel, God with us. On the other hand, I’m not glad for the bumpy interactions with dear friends, new colleagues or family members, or of the losses that came when trusted leaders I know took on new roles in other places-though I am happy for them. And I’m especially glad for a church to call home after months of trying to discern which to attend in the city we moved to. I’m glad not to be unpacking dishes and books in a new apartment, glad I don’t have to learn new bus routes or dog walks or find where the best grocery store is. I won’t lie: I’m glad this past year is over and we’re entering a new one. Pull up a chair at Sophia’s table, won’t you? There’s plenty of space. Sophia is the Greek word for Wisdom, and Propel Sophia seeks out the voices of truly wise women and asks them to share worked examples of how they express faith in daily life.

Six Tips for Staying Anchored When Everything Changes

Keep calm and carry on devotion