"Change is Inevitable, Growth is Optional," based on Numbers 13: 25-33 and insights from the book "Who Moved My Cheese?" -- Week 1 of this new sermon series. Click here to learn more about this 6-week sermon series.
The world is constantly evolving—whether it's technology, our bodies, or societal norms. I posed questions about how we handle change, emphasizing that anticipating and preparing for change is always better than being blindsided by it.
To help you think about this, consider this silly but real story... In preparation for a family trip to the Outer Banks. Knowing I’d be playing in the pool with my sons, I started lifting weights months in advance. This preparation made the experience enjoyable rather than exhausting. The same principle applies to any significant life change, such as retirement. Anticipation and preparation make the transition smoother.
While thinking about that, let me ask you. Have you read "Who Moved My Cheese?" it is a leadership book that explores change through the metaphor of four characters—two mice, Sniff and Scurry, and two little people, Hem and Haw. These characters represent different approaches to change. Sniff and Scurry are proactive and adaptable but never grow, while Hem resists change, and Haw learns to embrace it gradually and is the only one who grows.
The central message was that while change is unavoidable, growth requires a conscious decision. For Christians, real growth comes through God’s presence in our lives. This growth is about more than just adapting to change; it's about deepening our spiritual journey.
Returning to the story from Numbers 13: 25-33, I explained how the Israelites faced numerous challenges after escaping slavery in Egypt. Despite God's continual provision and guidance, many still longed for the security of their old lives. The report of the twelve spies further tested their faith. Caleb and Joshua, trusting in God's promise, were the only ones advocating for action and growth. Their faith set them apart from the rest, who feared the giants in the land.
I drew a parallel to our lives and community, stressing that refusing to change leads to stagnation and decline. Embracing change with faith in God’s guidance leads to growth. Caleb's confidence came from witnessing God’s power and faithfulness. We, too, must trust in God’s plan, even when it challenges our comfort zones.
In conclusion, I urged the congregation to face change with the same confidence and faith as Caleb. Whether it's in our personal lives, our church, or our nation, we must choose growth over fear. By relying on God's wisdom and grace, we can navigate the maze of life successfully, finding new doors of opportunity and purpose.
FURTHER SCRIPTURES FOR EXPLORATION
Numbers 14:1-2 3. Proverbs 3:5-6 4. Romans 12:2; John 4:23-24
FURTHER QUESTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION
Why do you think the majority of the spies focused on the obstacles rather than the opportunities?
How do you typically react to unexpected changes in your life?
What does it mean to you to grow in spirit and truth?
How can we, as a community, support each other in times of change?
What role does faith play in helping you navigate life's changes?
How can we apply the lessons from Caleb and Joshua's faith to our current challenges?
LIFE APPLICATION - HOMEWORK
This week, identify one area in your life where change is happening or is about to happen. Take a proactive step to prepare for this change, and spend time in prayer asking God for guidance and growth in this area.
KEY ELEMENTS TO CONSIDER
Change is inevitable. However, growth is optional.
Faith in God helps us navigate and adapt to change.
Caleb and Joshua's trust in God's promise set them apart.
Preparation can make transitions smoother.
"Plan ahead; it wasn't raining when Noah built the ark."
True growth comes from relying on God's presence in our lives.
Comments