Do you ever find yourself clinging to the old way of life even when an adjustment has the potential to bring good? This reaction can be perplexing and hold us back from moving forward with confidence and excitement. Yet, there is a way to stop resisting change.
I remember the day vividly when I received a call from the administrator at my child’s treatment center. The compassionate woman on the other end said, “Congratulations. Your child is ready to transition home from treatment. Is now a good time to chat about how that might look?” Despite my joy and pride in my child’s progress, I found myself pursing my lips, clenching my teeth, and pacing as I spoke with Joanie, our trusted advocate for the past two years.
While thrilled and proud of the achievement, I voiced support in a tone that lacked enthusiasm. Internally, I screamed, No, this can’t be happening. I had adjusted to the new normal of monthly plane trips, grueling IEPs (Individualized Education Programs), and heartbreaking therapy sessions. Unfamiliar hotels had become familiar. The numerous hours spent alone traveling and in a strange city had become my sanctuary where I spent time in the presence of God.
Do you resist change, even when it’s what you’ve prayed and hoped for?
Understanding the Resistance to Change
When we find ourselves resisting change, especially when it is beneficial, we must pause and uncover the underlying reasons for our apprehension. The fear of the unknown often creeps into our minds, robbing our souls of peace.
Do you ever fear the unknown, even when the potential for good exists?
On this particular day, worry and fear consumed my thoughts. The what-ifs ran full speed ahead, and the past mishaps rang like they were yesterday. I feared failing my child if she came home under my care, even though I, too, had worked hard preparing for this day. What if I didn’t have what it takes to help her thrive? Perhaps you see a familiar pattern here; my thoughts were focused entirely on me, not our Lord, who promises to equip.
The Path to Overcoming Fear
The good news is that we have a way out when fear takes hold and change is hard. We must surrender everything to God.
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.”
(Ephesians 3: 20-21 NIV)
Stop Resisting Change: Surrender to God
When you feel the urge to cling to the old ways of life, try this: close your eyes tightly, wrinkle your nose, clench your teeth, and hold your hands in tight fists with palms up. Squeeze as hard as you can, digging your nails into your palms as if keeping all your worries and fears locked inside your hands. Then, when you can no longer maintain this uncomfortable stance, fling open your hands and say, “I surrender it all to you, Jesus. I trust you, Lord.”
By surrendering to God, we can embrace change with confidence and excitement. This means acknowledging that we are not in control and trusting that God has a plan for us. We can live one moment at a time, knowing God is in control, not us. What a relief it is when we don’t have to dwell on the past or worry about the future. We can remain present and assured that God has us in His hands and that He is good.
I’d love to hear what helps you stop resisting change. How do you surrender to God in your own life? Does it make a difference for you? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Meet Maree Dee
Maree Dee is a dedicated Writer | Speaker | Mental Health coach | Advocate—passionate about encouraging and empowering others to embrace life in the midst of unexpected challenges. She is a resilient warrior who doesn’t give up when times are tough. Maree Firmly believes that with God’s help, everyone can find incredible joy, even amidst their pain.
Visit Maree’’s website, Embracing the Unexpected, for more of her insights. For further support, visit Embracing Faith & Mental Illness, a support platform for those who love someone with a mental illness. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
I love seeing you two teaming up! And this spoke straight to my heart. I do not embrace change with grace! Leaning into these wise words today, Maree!
Stacey, I’m right there with you. Change is hard, and yes, we need grace.
Thank you Stacey! It’s hard to embrace change, but luckily our Heavenly Father walks with us through it!
I just today looking up to heaven, sobbing gave the situation with my son up to God. I just know he has plan for the both of us! Thank you for your eloquently writing, I feel better about it 😊
Terri, My prayers are with you too. May God do a miraculous healing. Maree
Terri I am praying over you and your son. Thank you for reading Maree’s beautiful words.
In the past, any time I was thinking about changing the situation or dynamics with my daughter, I’d share my thoughts with one of my sisters. My sister is a Christ follower so I thought she would be receptive to my ideas. NOTT! From her perspective, she couldn’t imagine how my ideas would work because she said she wouldn’t be able to do it. So I prayed. The more I prayed, the crankier I got with her because I didn’t think she was standing on the promises of God. So, like a bull in a china shop, I jumped in feet first with God and He showed up big time. So I kept jumping in/surrendering time and time again. The more I jumped/surrendered, the easier it got. I have to admit I have always taken “you can’ts” as a challenge. I will also admit that it wasn’t always the brightest idea, but I’ve have more successes than splats so I keep on praying and surrendering. One of the best things that has happened is the my sister had come around to my way of thing. 😂🤣. She’s standing on the promises of God on so many things!
Sonja, Thank you so much for sharing your example. You are right; it does get easier. And I love the point that people can change. Glad you didn’t give up. Maree
Oh Sonja what a testimony! Thank you for sharing. Praying over you today. Blessings!
Brianna! I just wanted to say a big thank you for inviting me to engage with your amazing community and contribute to this fantastic series. Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving filled with joy! Take care, Maree
Maree thank you for writing this beautiful post. It’s been a blessing to many. Happy Thanksgiving!!