“Nothing changes until something changes.” I read this quote the other day and it gave me pause. Sometimes, we are not motivated to make a change unless and until it is predicated on something that sparks the change.

For example, a trip to the doctor’s office may result in the need for a dietary change. A reorganization at our work may result in a managerial change. A major life event, such as a divorce or job loss may result in us seeking a lifestyle change.

We have mixed reviews about change. We crave it at times so that we can escape the boredom we may be experiencing. Alternatively, we also dislike change because it messes with our comfortable routines.

We like what we like until we don’t like it anymore.

Our lives and our world change every day…every minute sometimes! Even our bodies are changing as billions of cells are being regenerated every day. Since change is inevitable, it makes sense to have a healthy attitude toward it, don’t you think?

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”” (John 16:33 NKJV)

The Bible tells us, in fact Jesus said it Himself in John 16:33, that we are going to face challenges and changes as long as we live in this world. Yet, He also gives us the solution when we face these trials: be of good cheer.

Was Jesus saying we should be happy about trials? Well…yes and no. Let me explain.

While Jesus wasn’t saying you should do the happy dance about the challenges, what He is saying is that He’s the solution to it. He’s your answer. For example:

If the doctor tells you that you can be cured of your pre-diabetes by making changes to your diet, won’t you be happy? If your child is struggling with their homework and you provide a new way to do it that makes it easier, wouldn’t that make them happy? (Oh…and you too!)

There are many stories in the Bible about the major challenges that faced the people. The Israelites being chased by the Egyptians to the brink of destruction when they faced the Red Sea is a good one.

God provided a way “through” the challenge. He didn’t make the Red Sea disappear. He provided wisdom to Moses to part the waters and they escaped.

Many times, we want God to make our challenges disappear but that doesn’t usually happen. What He does do is give us the strength to endure, the wisdom for the best solution, and the people to support us along the way.

Here’s what I’m learning:

No matter what changes we face, we always have Someone by our side to help us get through them. Jesus conquered death, hell, and the grave. Surely, He can help us conquer our “light and momentary troubles” (2 Corinthians 4:17). He said He would be with us and He will be.

“…and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” (Matthew 28:20 NKJV)

Maybe that’s the change we need. Let’s stop doing life alone. Let’s start doing life with Jesus.