How to Navigate Change

Marathon Fellowship

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Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1

In “How to Navigate Change,” David Souther teaches that change is a tool the Lord uses to accomplish His purposes in our lives. Drawing from Ecclesiastes 3:1, Daniel 2:20-21, Romans 8:28, and other passages, Souther explains how God uses change to strengthen our character, draw us into greater holiness, and prepare us for new opportunities. He encourages believers to remember they are part of God’s bigger plan, embrace flexibility, take comfort in what never changes, avoid dwelling on the past, focus on impact rather than circumstances, and remain fruitful regardless of age.

Lesson Outline Download

Lesson Outline

For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Main Idea: Change is a tool the Lord uses to accomplish His will.
1. “Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power. He controls
  the course of world events; he removes kings and sets up other kings.” (Daniel 2:20-21)
2. “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those
  who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” (Romans 8:28)
“How does God use change in our lives?”
1. To strengthen your faith and make you more like Christ.
  Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. (James 1:2-3)
2. To bring you back into fellowship.
  God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. (Hebrews 12:10)
3. To bring you to a new adventure or prepare you for one.
  “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.” (Genesis 50:20)
“How to navigate change”
1. Remember that you are a small part of a bigger picture.
  “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. ” (Isaiah 55:8)
2. Be flexible knowing that change is a natural part of following Jesus.
  Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” And they left their nets at once and followed him. (Matthew 4:19-20)
3. Take courage in what won’t change.
  Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” (Deuteronomy 31:8)
4. Don’t dwell on the past.
  Don’t long for “the good old days.” This is not wise. (Ecclesiastes 7:10)
5. Focus more on the Gospel than the circumstances.
  And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. (Philippians 1:12)
6. Embrace that you are never too old for fruit-producing change.
  But the godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted to the Lord’s own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. (Psalm 92:12-14)

Remember, as the winds of change come your way, never stop ___________, never stop ___________, never stop ___________.