When Life Shifts
Be encouraged by today’s Scripture reflection and prayer.
Today’s Scripture
Ecclesiastes 7:14 (KJV)
“In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him.”
Reflection
What a beautiful day, I thought to myself as I hopped in the car, ready to take a short two-hour trip. I had made this drive many times before, but today was especially welcome. The weather was just right. Clear skies. A light, cool breeze.
As soon as I started the engine, my tire pressure light lit up. Sure enough, after checking the tire, I found a nail stuck in it. And of course, I wasn’t prepared. I highly doubted I was going to change the tire myself. What followed was a full-on pout fest. I managed to take that little moment and turn it into something that felt like the end of the world.
Even though this was just a small hiccup in the grand scheme of things, it reminded me how quickly things can shift. One moment we are standing on a mountain of good feelings, and the next we are sinking in frustration and disappointment.
Responding well to change does not always come naturally. But Ecclesiastes reminds us that God made both the day of joy and the day of adversity. We often praise Him when things are going well, but forget that He is still present in the hard moments too.
We see this truth reflected throughout Scripture. Esther was living in comfort as queen when suddenly the burden of her people’s suffering fell on her shoulders. Joseph went from being the beloved son to being thrown into a pit, then prison. Their lives shifted quickly and deeply, yet God was in control through it all.
No matter the season or the kind of day we are walking through, God is still sovereign. I am learning to savor the moments of prosperity and to hold steady when the sun disappears. Because both days are formed by the same loving hands.
Today’s Prayer
Lord, help me respond well to change. When I face uncertainty or unexpected disruptions, remind me that You are still guiding each moment. Let my heart rejoice in the good days and lean on You in the difficult ones. Teach me to trust that both are under Your care. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Before You Go
Responding well to change starts with remembering that God is always present. He is with you in the sunlight and He is with you in the storm.
What is your first response when life suddenly shifts? Do you turn inward, or do you turn to the One who never changes?
Take a moment to thank God for the days of peace. Ask Him for strength to walk through the days of adversity with wisdom, patience, and faith.
