Accepting Help for Changes

Unexpected changes can be either beneficial or burdensome, depending on how situations are perceived. When Moses’ father-in-law came for a visit, he observed a situation in need of change. Moses was spending an inordinate amount of time mediating disputes that arise when people live together.

These disputes had become such a distraction that he was neglecting other important work. Moses’ father-in-law gave him advice that has served as a model for settling civil disputes. Moses accepted that there were qualified others who could mediate these disputes. He learned the importance of delegating work and authority to others.

The message for us is that there are others who can give us wisdom and advice for making changes and managing our problems. Listen to Proverbs 2:6, which reminds us of another source for change: "It is the Lord God who gives wisdom. His every word is a treasure of knowledge and understanding.” Our unchanging God provides guidance to us for making needed changes.  

_____________ 

In the beginning, Lord, you laid the earth’s foundation and created the heavens. They will all disappear and wear out like clothes. You change them, as you would a coat, but you last forever. You are always the same. Years cannot change you.

~Psalm 102:25-27 Contemporary English Version

 

See how I love your instructions, Lord. Your love never changes, so save me! The heart of your law is truth, and all your righteous judgments are eternal.

~Psalm 119:159-160 Good News Bible 

______________

Subscribe to the Attitudes Answers podcast on your favorite podcast platform to hear this and other 2-minute features 3 days every week. 

Crisis and Compromise: Choosing God's Way - Part 3

It's not unusual to get stuck in a career before understanding what best suits your personality. Someone thought you were a good fit for a particular job; an opportunity opened up, and that's been your career. Integrity is compromised at the point of knowing that something else would have been better but that too many obligations exist to risk changing.

Those who endure these situations often come to retirement feeling compromised. Who you are and what you want is often in conflict with what you have to do. However integrity is invigorated by finding meaningful life purposes beyond a career. Choosing to serve God in ways that utilize your gifts and talents prevent lapsing into sadness or even despair.

Believing that God's provides opportunities insures you can feel confident rather than languish in frustration. A clear conscience, fostered by integrity and combined with hope, gives energy for doing what God provides. Listen to Proverbs 2:6: "The Lord gives wisdom and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." These blessings make life worth living.