Malachi 3:6a – I the Lord do not change. (NIV)

Sparky and I have not been to The Trail for a couple of weeks, so as we enter through the narrow opening in the tall grasses, I am astounded at the changes that meet my eyes.

We are instantly engulfed in a maelstrom of whirling leaves, as a brisk wind whistles down the narrow trail. The former carpet of yellow and red that spread underneath our feet a short while ago has changed to brown, and the wind seems intent on sweeping the path clean. Bits of fluff from the milkweed pods and the fuzzy tops of the formerly golden goldenrod cling to my jacket.

Many of the trees have exchanged much of their beautiful, coloured foliage for shrivelled, brown leaves which cling valiantly to the branches. I notice how chilly the wind has become, and I pull the collar of my jacket up around my ears.

While I do not like change, I realize that this is a natural and necessary part of nature's life cycle which has been set up by God. The Scripture says very clearly, "Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds" (John 12:24 NIV). So I know that after their long winter sleep, those seeds will be filled with new life and produce many more of the beautiful flowers that I have enjoyed so much. He spreads the beauty around by sending the wind to carry the seeds to different areas instead of crowding them all into one place.

As I ponder these thoughts, I realize that I have been wrestling with the "winds of change" in my life, and perhaps God is speaking to my spirit through this experience. He reminds me that I need not fear any future change since my loving Father plans my life, and He'll arrange each change to happen for the best. He does not change, so I can rest in Him and wait for the beautiful flowers that He will cause to bloom one day in my life.

We all must face inevitable changes in our lives, and it is such a comfort to know that we can confidently move into an unknown future holding the hand of our loving God.

Prayer: Father, You do not change, so we can rest confidently in You with no fear or anxiety about our future. While it is unknown to us, we are assured that it is known to You. Teach each one of us to rest in You and to trust You to perform Your will in each one of us as individuals. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

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About the author:

Sharon Y. Greer <sygreer11@gmail.com>
Sandycove Acres, Innisfil, Ontario, Canada
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