As summer turns to fall in Illinois, the wonderful warm days of Indian summer arrive. This is a time of change, not only in the weather, as days become shorter and nights chillier, but often a time of personal changes as loved ones move off to attend college, start new jobs, make new friends, often leaving parents and others behind.
Bob Dylan once wrote, “May you have a strong foundation when the winds of change shift…” Like many others, I have found the Bible to be that strong foundation when facing times of challenge or change. Why? Because the Bible, spiritually interpreted, helps us understand that the power of God is mightier than any fearful situation we may be facing. It’s a textbook on life. Through counsel and example, it shows us how to face any situation, trusting that God’s love and protective power are sufficient to help us no matter the changes we face.
King David penned these words about God’s ever-presence and unchanging love during uncertain times: “Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there; if I make my bed in hell, behold thou art there” (Ps. 139: 7, 8). This Psalm teaches that God’s direction and affection never leave us, no matter where we are, who we are with (or not with), or how severe the challenges we seem to be up against.
Mary Baker Eddy taught that turning to the Bible, we can find our own individual relationship with God as a loving Father, Mother, dearest Friend, and especially Healer. This understanding gives us confidence, joy, and inspiration wherever life leads us. Even during tough times, these new views of God’s goodness and love found in Scripture heal fear, frustration and loneliness. She wrote in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, “Each successive stage of experience unfolds new views of divine goodness and love.”
One of the most difficult changes I’ve faced was when I took a job that seemed much harder than I expected, even though I knew I was thoroughly qualified for it. After a few sleepless nights of worry and feelings of inadequacy, I found these words in the Bible: “For He [God] performeth the thing that is appointed for me:” (Job 23:14). This passage didn’t lessen the amount of work I had to do, but it did reassure me that God was providing me with the insight, intelligence and fortitude I needed to do the work well. That job turned into a very happy and successful experience.
Enjoy these beautiful days of Indian summer, and allow the chillier nights to remind you that no matter what new challenges you may face, there is an unwavering, unconditional, divine Love enfolding you and those you love, right now bringing health, happiness and resilience into your life.
