In autumn, a tree’s green leaves give way to golden yellow or fiery orange hues. The landscape is a portrait of change. Yet, the tree does not reveal a new complexion but instead displays its true colors. A tree breaks down chlorophyll, the green pigment in its leaves, showing what has always been present yet masked: its yellow and orange pigments. Similarly, as God guides us through life’s changing seasons, our true identity as children of God is displayed. It’s easy to feel out of control as conditions around us change. But like a tree following time’s tempo, we can embrace change and allow it to bring out what is true of us in Christ.
Whether expected or unanticipated, change brings challenges with it. Whether it’s an exciting new beginning or an unexpected jolt of circumstances, God’s power accompanies us around every bend. The Holy Spirit dwells inside us and makes God’s power available. In Acts 1:8, we read Jesus’ words to His followers. He said, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you….” At the time, Jesus’ followers faced an uncertain and unwelcome change of circumstances. The One they’d dedicated their lives to for the past four years was leaving, yet not without a promise of power. Jesus explained how the Spirit’s power would be displayed in their lives: “And you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Our lives are a display of God’s power. Life’s changing seasons allow us to display His power in our lives as we trust Him with a future that might feel uncertain to us, but to Him is fully known.
Change can be uncomfortable when we strive for control. It feels unnatural to surrender our plans to God’s agenda. And yet, think of the trees revealing their true colors. When we remember that we are God’s children and that He wants what is best for us, yielding to His plan is natural. We are returning to a posture of faith where we find security in the One who has had an excellent plan for our lives since before time began. Psalm 139:16 says, “Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be.” Just as God carefully engineered nature to operate by natural laws He wrote long ago, He created us to thrive as we live by His design and trust His timing.
Life’s changing seasons bring into question what is within our control and what we have little or no authority over. Fear and anxiety can spread in the space of uncertainty. Rather than reacting to shifting situations, we can remain in the security of God’s love. Psalm 36:5 reminds us, “Your love, LORD, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the skies.” This verse’s Hebrew word for steadfast is ḥeseḏ, conveying a sense of loyal love. God’s love is not fleeting and does not hinge on circumstances or our reactions to life’s changes. No matter how out of control life’s changes can feel, God’s love remains unscathed and sufficient.
Our God, who exists beyond the constraints of time, reigns over all circumstances with His mighty power. Even in ever-changing seasons, we can confidently rely on His power, plan, and love. As we do, our lives become living proof of God’s work within us. Others can clearly see our true identity as children of God, and be inspired to seek the same connection.
Listen to Plans I Have For You from Hidden In My Heart, Volume IV
For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord
I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord
They are plans for good and not for harm
Plans to give you hope and a future
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© 2023 BreakAway Music. All Rights Reserved
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy
Copyright | Site Credit