Picture: Counsel #17 — Beyond the Familiar CWe 77.1
Embracing change can be scary. Whether expected or sudden, human beings much prefer staying comfortable in the familiar. Whether you’re used to a certain thinking pattern, friend group, job, or way of life, if your stress level remains elevated, it’s time to re-evaluate your patterns. CWe 77.2
The first thing to realize is that God doesn’t want you to be so overwhelmed that you suffer mentally and physically. There’s a clear difference between stress that challenges you to grow and stress that drains your spirit. God will never place you in a situation where He must take a back seat. If your job or relationship consistently brings anxiety and fuels negative, self-defeating thoughts, it may be time to consider letting go or seeking something new. CWe 77.3
Despite what culture may suggest, change is a natural part of life—and often needed for God to work in and through you. Before you say “no” to something new, pause and pray. Ask God what He wants you to do. He will never lead you astray.[92] https://adventistreview.org/my-church/embracing-change-with-courage/ CWe 77.4
“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 43:18-19 NIV CWe 77.5
“Forgetting the things that are behind, let us press forward in the heavenward way.” Ellen White in God’s Amazing Grace , p. 120 CWe 77.6
Reflect: How willing are you to change things in your life that cause the most stress? CWe 77.7
