When the Calendar Changes but God Remains - The Crosswalk Devotional - January 2
When the Calendar Changes but God Remains
By: Laura Bailey
Bible Reading:
“In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. Like clothing you will change them, and they will be discarded. But you remain the same, and your years will never end.” - Psalm 102:25-27 NIV
I found that people have mixed feelings about change. There are those like me who crave change and are easily bored by routine and regimentation. Conversely, perhaps you are more like my husband, who finds comfort in consistency. The reality is that life offers us both. Change is inevitable and necessary, and finding contentment in routine is equally important.
Yes, as humans, we will experience change throughout our lives. But here’s the good news: there’s one thing that never changes - our God! Today, if you are feeling anxious about the changing of the calendar, rest in the truth that our God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. When feelings of worry and dread of the unknown are tempted to steal your joy and rob your peace, take time to recite these prayers, as you rest in our unchanging God!
“In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. Like clothing you will change them, and they will be discarded. But you remain the same, and your years will never end.” - Psalm 102:25-27 NIV
Heavenly Father, I come before as I enter a new year filled with uncertainty. My heart is anxious, my thoughts consumed with the “what-ifs.” Lord, help my heavy heart rest in the knowledge that You are the Creator, You’ve always existed, and You remain the same for all eternity. You spoke the creation into existence. Your plan for redemption for Your children has remained constant through the ages. When fear of the unknown creeps in, I ask you to silence those thoughts and grant me peace that only You can provide. Thank you. Though I am fickle, Lord, You are always faithful in Jesus' Name, Amen.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. - Hebrews 13:8
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of Jesus Christ. We see in Jesus that You keep Your promises. In the garden, You promised to make a way for Your children to be reconciled to You, to be saved and redeemed for their sins. Jesus was there in the beginning, and He has always been a part of Your plan. Help me to trust in Your purpose. Lord, You know my thoughts, my heart that quickly beats because I am anxious about tomorrow. Yet, You are sovereign, in total control, and are working everything for my good and Your glory. Calm my anxiety, and help me to release control, the need to know every detail over to You. This year, Lord, I ask that I approach each day worry-free, because I know You are unchanging, and You are Faithful, and I can put my trust in You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed. - Malachi 3:6 ESV
Heavenly Father, though people are inconsistent and fickle, You are not. You are immutable, faithful, and steadfast. Your very nature is unchanging. I can put my trust in You because You are eternally trustworthy. Please guide my decisions so that I may live in a way that is holy and pleasing to you. Transform my thoughts and desires to align with Your will. I give this year to you, the highs and lows, the good and bad days, I surrender and submit to You. You are a God, who sees and cares about your children. While I am not able to see the future, I can trust in the One who is the Alpha and Omega — the beginning and the end. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Praying for you today, friend, as you navigate the changing of the calendar. May this new year bring anticipation and excitement, not dread and anxiousness, as you trust our unchanging God.
Intersecting Faith & Life:
How do you feel about change? Take time today to write down one of the verses above on a card. Place the card somewhere you can easily see it when you feel anxious about the unknown.
Further Reading:
A Prayer for God's Guidance as We Travel New Paths
Psalm 102
How did today’s devotional speak to you? Share your thoughts in the Crosswalk Devotional discussion.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/ChainarongPrasertthai
She lives in Upstate South Carolina with her husband and three young girls, where she serves as director of women's ministries at her church. Her passion is teaching the Bible to women, equipping them to live with an eternal perspective. Invite Laura to speak at your next event or learn more: www.LauraRBailey.com Check out fantastic resources on Faith, Family, and Fun at Crosswalk.com! Relationship tripwires. Mental health puzzles. Confusing work dynamics. You’re not the only one scratching your head. But now you have a secret decoder ring! Each episode of I Wish You Could Hear This is packed with proven, simple, and surprising secrets that help you thrive in life, faith, and relationships. Researchers Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn have spent decades interviewing and surveying more than 40,000 people to identify the little things that make a big difference in our lives. They’re Harvard-educated, Christian authors and speakers who also happen to be happily married, analytically minded, and a whole lot of fun! Join them and their guests for real stories, real help, and real hope. Like what you hear? Be sure to follow I Wish You Could Hear This on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
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