Navigating Change Part II: Stewardship vs Ownership

Have you ever struggled letting go of something?

Or someone?

Do you find yourself hesitating to make the changes necessary to succeed and move forward amidst uncertain circumstances?

In Part I I described two steps Job took to navigate his unfortunate situation: 

1. addressing the real circumstances that surrounded him
2. adopting an optimistic and grateful attitude

Instead of immediately implementing these steps, there are certain roadblocks we can potentially reach that can make navigating change difficult.

We often create a false attitude that things, people, job titles, or even resources are ours forever.  

The problem with adopting this mindset is when things are taken from us such as opportunities, relationships, or even our health, we begin to feel frustrated or angry when it leaves. 

Scripture III

“He said, ‘I came naked from my mother’s womb, and I will be naked when I leave. The Lord gave me what I had, and the Lord has taken it away.’” – Job‬ ‭1:21‬a NLT‬‬

Job corrected this false attitude with the understanding that he is merely a steward of the things God has graced him with.  In the book The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren portrays life as a temporary assignment.  

When we are able to see from the beginning that life’s gifts are truly God’s to give(Psalm 24:1), we are able to address reality when it comes time to say goodbye, or when it comes time to transition and adapt.  

The idea that the experiences we share and even the time we have is merely a gift of our Creator both allows us to explore the excitement of good things arriving and addressing when good things leave.  

To see a negative example, read how king Saul was unable to let go of the gifts God bestowed upon him in 1 Samuel 9-15.  

King Saul saw the throne of Israel as “mine”.  

Later, when it was clear God was using a younger, more promising man named David to lead Israel to victory,  mad king Saul never accurately addressed nor adapted to the truth. Saul never let go. 

Applications

1. Is there something you need to let go of in order to move forward?

To navigate change we often need to loosen our grip on what we think or once thought was rightfully “mine”. 

2. Times of transition often bring this sense of loss.  

Are there temporary or changing circumstances you need to address?

3. What are some opportunities ahead that could help you adapt a positive mindset if you decided to pursue them?

Prayer

God, help us address the truth that we are merely stewards of the life you give us.

Thank you for the grace you have given  to help us get this far.

Give us the strength to navigate the changes ahead and bring us into a brighter tomorrow, in Jesus’ name, amen.