“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving
let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6-7
Happy New Year! Though there is no way to tell what a new year will bring, one thing we can
count on is that it will include change. Change can cause anxiety, but it can also present great opportunity. The attitude that we have about change makes a big impact on how successful we are in navigating the changes in our lives, and it also says something significant about our relationship with God. When we are worried and fearful of change, then we are not fully trusting in God’s faithfulness to walk with us and to give us the strength needed to meet whatever challenges lie ahead. We rob ourselves of God’s peace and of the energy we could use to make a positive difference in the situation. That anxiety can also keep us from seeing the wonderful opportunities and blessings that God is offering us in something new.
The Bible, throughout the Old and New Testaments, tells us that not only should we expect great change in life, but that we are also called to be instruments of change in the world. With God, change is not something to fear. It is something to embrace as a part of being faithful disciples of Christ. Yes, the world is changing rapidly, but we worship a great God and are called to give a great witness in the world. What will our witness as Christians be in 2023? Will we add to the anxiety and fearfulness that is churning among so many in the world, or will we pour out patience, resilience, and confidence in God’s presence and provision?
As we move into a new year, this is a great opportunity to chart a course to navigate change
grounded in our faith. Just as Paul encouraged the church at Philippi, I encourage you in this time of
change: do not worry, but instead pray to God with thanks and earnest pleas for guidance and for provision. Whatever changes we have to navigate in the world, we do not face them alone. If we can remain grounded in our faith and trust in our amazing God, we will be able to face whatever changes that may come with strength and with peace. Above all, do not worry because God’s got us covered!
