Embracing Change | Devotional Series

Corresponding Episode:
She Impacts Culture Podcast #124, Beyond Logic & Embracing Change, Dr. Jen Bennett
https://drjenbennett.com/beyond-logic-embracing-change/

In this episode from our She Impacts Culture Devotional Series, guest host Corrie Heinrichs leads us on a journey centered on the theme of "Embracing Change." Drawing from the powerful scriptures of Isaiah 43:18-1, contemplate how God prepares us for new seasons in life, encouraging us to trust in His guiding hand even when faced with uncertainty. Through heartfelt prayers, personal reflections, and actionable steps, this episode invites listeners to open their hearts to God's transformative works, let go of familiar comforts, and embrace the greater blessings He has in store.
 
 English Standard Version (ESV)

Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

New Living Translation (NLT)
But forget all that—it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.

New International Version (NIV)

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Ask yourself:

"When have I been most reluctant to leave behind the blessings I know for the potentially greater blessings God has in preparation for me?”

Reflect

• Dedicate time this week to quietly contemplate Isaiah 43:18-19.
• Reflect on areas in your life where you might be yearning for change or where God might be signaling it's time for transformation.

Engage

• Jot down one tangible change you feel called to make or accept in your life.
• Initiate this change by planning actionable steps you can take this week, such as altering your routine, reaching out for new opportunities, or even shifting your mindset towards new possibilities.

Pray

1. Pray for a heart receptive to God's nudgings, willing to move beyond comfort and familiarity.
2. Intercede for those in our lives who are also experiencing change, that they may feel supported and strengthened in God's love during transitions.
3. Pray for a transformative spirit within ourselves to consistently grow in faith and alignment with God's will.

Corresponding Episode:
She Impacts Culture Podcast #124, Beyond Logic & Embracing Change, Dr. Jen Bennett
https://drjenbennett.com/beyond-logic-embracing-change/

Connect with Jen:
Website: https://drjenbennett.com
My Book: http://amzn.to/2H4gn9m
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjenbennett/
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjenbennett/

Transcript

0:01

Hello, friends. I'm doctor Jen Bennett. We are in the midst of our she impacts culture devotional series with guest host, Corrie. We are exploring the intersection of faith and impact, drawing inspiration from our previous episodes. But more than that, we'll embark on a journey of spiritual renewal and activation. Join me as we take a pause from the noise of the world, sip from the well of encouragement, and center ourselves in devotion and prayer. Each episode will feature a snippet from a past conversation followed by a devotional designed to uplift your spirit and ignite your purpose. So whether you're in need of a word of affirmation, a moment of prayer, or simply seeking guidance, this series is here for you. Friends, get comfortable, open your heart, and let's dive into the She impacts culture devotional series. Just because Jesus blessed you here, doesn't mean he'll keep you here. Jesus blessed Abraham right where he was, but he didn't keep him there. And friends, it's the same with us. Just because Jesus may be blessing you right where you are, doesn't mean that he'll keep you there. Again, it's hard to give up good things. And the more you love it, the less you'll listen. This prayer devotional corresponds to the She Impact's culture episode 123, beyond logic and embracing change with doctor Jen Bennett. But forget all that. It is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun. Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland. Isaiah 43 verse 18 and 19, taken from the NLT. Heavenly father, we approach your throne with hearts full of thanksgiving, outpouring of your blessing upon our lives. As we face the winds of change, lead us to remember that what we have known and cherished is not the full extent of your marvelous plans for us. Lord, you always have more in store beyond what we can see or understand. Thank you for the comforts and seasons of stability that have given us strength and joy. As we cherish these blessings, teach us not to hold them so tightly that we are unable to embrace the new things you are doing in our lives. Give us the faith to let go of the security we have created, to trust your guiding hand as it leads us into uncharted territories. Help us to recognize the onset of your new seasons and to welcome them without fear. We ask for the determination and bravery to step beyond the boundaries of our understanding, into the growth and opportunities that await us. Encourage our hearts when the journey grows challenging and the future seems uncertain. Enable us to be agents of change ourselves, always ready to move at the sound of your voice, always prepared to climb the new heights you set before us. In your name we pray, amen. Ask yourself the question, Jen have I been most reluctant to leave behind the blessings I know for the potentially greater blessings God has in preparation for me? As you go through your week, I encourage you to do these three things. 1st, reflect. Dedicate time this week to quietly contemplate Isaiah 43 verse 18 and 19. Reflect on areas in your life where you might be yearning for change or where God might be signaling it's time for transformation. Secondly, engage. Jot down one tangible change you feel called to make or accept in your life. Initiate this change by planning actionable steps you can take this week, such as altering your routine, reaching out for new opportunities, readiness for God's plans. And then pray. Pray for a heart receptive to God's nudgings, willing to move beyond comfort and familiarity. Intercede for those in our lives who are also experiencing change, that they may feel supported and strengthened in God's love during transitions. And lastly, pray for a transformative spirit within ourselves to consistently grow in faith and alignment with God's will. Embrace these actions and let them lead you into a deeper, more trusting relationship with God, anchoring you as you navigate the changes God sets upon your path. To listen to the corresponding episode or to see these activations and prayer lists, please reference the show notes. I'm Corey, and thank you for joining our devotional series on the She Impact Culture podcast.