Pray first.
Read Genesis 35.
Change isn’t easy. It often brings a mix of uncertainty and loss, requiring us to let go of what we’ve come to know and love. As a military family, we’ve faced this—moving away, starting anew, and letting go numerous times. Each change has shown us that we can trust God throughout the journey.
While challenging, change can have its perks. Take Jacob, for instance. He left his home to stay with his uncle in Padang Alam, seeking refuge from his brothers. There, he found a wife, had children, and even gained wealth. When God called him back to the promised land, he obeyed, and, remarkably, God kept him safe, allowing him to reconcile peacefully with his brother.
Jacob later moved to Saccos to settle down, but soon returned to Shechem, where he and his family experienced a tragic event. From there, he went back to where he first encountered God. Bethel was not just a geographical spot for Jacob; it was where he saw God and His angels. It’s also where God reaffirmed the promises made to Abraham—about the Promised Land and the Kingdom of Descendants—and where Jacob vowed to return.
Upon his return to that sacred place, Jacob felt repentance and forgiveness. His relationship with God was restored, and his purpose renewed—he was to be the father of a great nation, God’s people. He built an altar and worshipped God there.
Just like Jacob, my family has learned through our relocations that faith can grow during times of upheaval and that we can rely on God through both good and bad circumstances.
Jesus frequently used moments to teach his followers about trust in tough times. For example, in Matthew 14, there’s the story where Jesus walked on stormy waters towards his disciples. Only Peter dared to step out of the safety of the boat to join Him. When fear struck, he began to sink and called out for Jesus to save him. And, of course, Jesus reached out, pulling him to safety.
When Peter stepped back into the boat, Jesus chided him, saying, Oh, you of little faith! Why did you doubt? (Matt 14:31 ESV). This was more than a rebuke; it was a lesson on trust. Even when we doubt, our faith can lift us, especially if we focus too much on what’s immediately in front of us rather than on Jesus.
Maybe Jesus also intended to convey that even a tiny amount of faith can yield significant results. Think about moving mountains with faith as small as a mustard seed! Jacob trusted enough to return to where he first encountered God, and Peter stepped out onto the water.
Right now, you may find yourself in a boat that feels secure, but are you willing to step out in faith toward where Jesus might be calling you? Sometimes, it’s easier to cling to what we know, surrounded by familiar faces. But those comforts can hold us back, fueled by our self-doubt and fear of the unknown.
The good news is, at the feet of Jesus, there’s a freedom from those doubts and fears. When we trust Him, we can muster the courage to move toward the life He has intended for us and truly experience the blessings of walking with Him.
Are you living your life disconnected from God, on a path of your own making? He may be urging you to take that leap of faith. Perhaps He wants you to step into a leadership position in your church or start a Bible study group. You might feel as though you’re stuck in a deep hole, lost in despair. No matter what might have happened in your past—or even if you’ve ignored God—He stands ready for you, reaching out through the storms. He calls you to take action.
Change can be a tough pill to swallow, but with every stride we take alongside God, we’re reminded of His faithfulness. So, why not take that step of faith and walk on the water with Him?
Worship: Sea by Hillsong United
