Change

Change One

Years ago my kids and I went to the Philadelphia Zoo where we learned a little rhyme during one of the shows the zoo schedules for its many visitors. The rhyme went like this:"Metamorphos is What it means is this. Animals go through different stages. It keeps changing as it ages."Metamorphosis defined means, "A change in the form or function of a living organism, by a natural process of growth or development."(1)

We are all in "form and function" living. So, we are all, therefore, in the natural process of "growth and development."I know we are not animals, nor do any of us morph into being as the butterfly does. However, whether we want to or not, whether we like it or not, change is going to take place in our lives. And it doesn't matter one bit if we bury our heads in the sand - trying not to see it- or resist it kicking and screaming. Change is going to happen. Change IS happening!!

All around us life is changing. Things happening in the world are having a huge impact on our lives and in the lives of practically everyone that we know - among them, the price of gas. Ouch!! The process of change can often be difficult...sometimes painful. Yet, Christ in us, the hope of glory, enables us to do the next thing, to stay the course, to FINISH!

With full confidence, I can tell you this because I am and have been in a process of specific change, and while no part of it is easy, I am learning, even more, to trust His heart and His hand.Many decisions are being made within my soul (prompted by the Spirit) which, though painful, are helping me metamorph from one stage of development or maturity to another. And IT'S ALL GOOD!

The Lord's joy has been and IS my strength. This strength, with which He infuses me (us), frees us to do life, even when we are tempted to run, hoard or hide. We must remember, always and forever, God is sovereign and He, the Holy One of Israel, is our strength!" Then he said to them, 'Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.'" ~~Nehemiah 8:10 Stephanie Paul serves on the team of our Women's Addiction Recovery Program

1www.brainyquote.com/words/me/metamorphasis/189613.html 2 www.biblegateway.com