I struggle with resistance to change. How can I stop being so resistant?
The saying goes, "The only thing that stays the same is change." In other words, change is inevitable in nearly every aspect of our lives—physically as we age, relationally with others, financially, emotionally, and even spiritually.Though change will always occur, our discomfort with it is universal. However, as Christians, we should desire the kind of change that makes us more Christ-like. We are "new creations" in Christ and the old passes away (2 Corinthians 5:17). "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit" (2 Corinthians 3:18). In the end, we know that God makes "… all things new" (Revelation 21:5). "So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day" (2 Corinthians 4:16).
If you struggle with resistance to change, you can work to understand that change can be God's way of making you more like Him. His work in a person has been described as that of a refiner's fire (Zechariah 13:9; Malachi 3:2; 1 Peter 1:7) and like a gardener's pruning shears (John 15:2). Both processes are painful—the purifying fire and the cutting away of non-productive limbs. But the result is glorious! Even in difficult changes and changes we would never have anticipated or desired, we can trust that God is working to fulfill His good purposes (Romans 8:28). We don't necessarily have to enjoy the process, but we can choose not to resist the work He may be doing in our hearts through whatever circumstance we find ourselves in.
In the midst of change, pray and ask God to give you wisdom and understanding (James 1:5). Listen for His response. Read the Psalms—they reflect nearly every emotion a human can experience. We, too, can express all of our emotion to God, including our distaste for change. And, as we see reflected in the Psalms, we can also remind ourselves of God's faithful character and give Him thanks in all circumstances. First Thessalonians 5:16–18 tells us to, "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
It is comforting to remember that God does not change (James 1:16–18). No matter what changes our lives bring, we can be assured that our God is unchanging, eternally faithful, good, and loving. But becoming like Him requires that you change. So rather than resist, try to rest in His firm hands and allow Him to mold you into His image.
How can we turn worries and problems over to God?
Why should I trust in God and how can I learn to trust in Him?
How can I know whether God is telling me to do something?
What does the Bible say about decision-making?
What can I do to become more like Christ?
Truth about the Christian Life
