Change is unsettling. We live in changing times.
Let’s not sugarcoat that. I don’t want this post to be political, but it’s a fact that the new administration is making dramatic and drastic changes that affect a lot of people. Many of these changes are being felt very deeply in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Across our region, people are dealing with uncertainty—whether in government agencies, government contractors, schools, etc.
Oh, and let’s not even get started about Artificial Intelligence. The changes that have come – and are coming – with AI will make these changes look like nothing. Trust me on that.
When surrounded by massive change, when the earth beneath us begins to shake, the temptation is to worry, vent frustration, or get lost in endless speculation (and fear).
But as followers of Christ, we are called to a different response. Instead of fear, we are called to faith. Instead of grumbling, we are called to prayer. Instead of leaning on our own understanding, we are called to trust God’s wisdom and providence.
The Power of a Simple Prayer
One of the most well-known prayers in modern history is the Serenity Prayer, written by Reinhold Niebuhr, an American theologian, in the 1930s or early 1940s. While its origins are debated, the prayer gained widespread recognition when it was adopted by Alcoholics Anonymous and other recovery groups.
The original version reads:
“God, give us grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed, courage to change the things which should be changed, and the wisdom to distinguish the one from the other.”
Most people recognize the shortened version:
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.”
This simple yet profound prayer captures a biblical mindset. It reflects trust in God’s sovereignty, boldness to act when needed, and discernment to know when to let go.
Acceptance: Trusting God Over Our Own Understanding
At the heart of the Serenity Prayer is the call to accept what cannot be changed. This echoes the words of Proverbs 3:5-6:
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Trusting God means acknowledging that we are not in control—He is. That is not always easy. When change disrupts our lives, our instinct is to try to fix things, manipulate circumstances, or at least complain about them. But some things—especially shifts in government, workplace policies, or societal changes—are simply beyond our control.
Instead of growing bitter or anxious, we must surrender these things to God. Remember…
God is still sovereign. God is still on His throne. God is still working all things together for good for those who are “the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28).
Are you clinging to frustration over things you cannot change? Are you weary from trying to control what is beyond your reach? Let go. Give it to God. Find peace in trusting Him.
Courage: Taking Action When Called
While some things must be accepted, others require action. The second part of the prayer calls for courage to change the things we can.
The Christian life is not passive. There are times when we must stand for righteousness, make bold decisions, and move forward in faith. Consider the example of Daniel, who remained faithful in prayer despite the threat of the lion’s den (Daniel 6). Or Nehemiah, who courageously rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem despite opposition (Nehemiah 4).
If God has placed you in a position of influence, pray for wisdom to know when to speak, when to act, and when to wait. Not everything requires a fight—but some things do require action (and courage). It takes wisdom to know the difference.
Prayer: The First Response, Not the Last Resort
When faced with change, how do you respond? Do you pray first—or complain first?
The Apostle Paul urged believers to make prayer their first response to everything, including government affairs:
“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”
— I Timothy 2:1-2
It is easy to criticize leaders, but do we pray for them? Do we ask God to give them wisdom?
“But,” you say, “they won’t listen to God.”
I’m sure some people felt that way about Nebuchadnezzar. Regardless of whether the leaders listen to God or not, our job is to be faithful in intercessory prayer for our leaders. What human leaders do in response to God’s direction is between them and God. We must do our part.
Besides, the Bible shows – as does history – that the faithful and fervent prayers of God’s people do make a difference. You can make a much greater difference on your knees in prayer than you can by complaining to your friends or jumping on your keyboard and typing angry social media rants.
Imagine if every Christian in the Washington, D.C. area committed to praying rather than complaining. What if we trusted God rather than let fear control us? What if we truly walked in faith rather than anxiety?
Wisdom: Knowing the Difference
Finally, the Serenity Prayer asks for wisdom—the ability to discern what should be changed and what should be surrendered to God. James 1:5 tells us:
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
Are you struggling to know whether to act or accept? Ask God for wisdom. He will lead you.
Living with Serenity in a Shifting World
The world will keep changing. Governments will rise and fall. Policies will come and go. But God remains the same.
If you are facing uncertainty, meditate on the Serenity Prayer—but more importantly, meditate on what the Holy Spirit says in the Scriptures:
- Give everything causing you anxiety to God (Philippians 4:6-7)
- Trust Him completely (Proverbs 3:5-6).
- Pray for those in authority (I Timothy 2:1-2).
- Seek wisdom for each situation (James 1:5).
Let go of what you cannot control and embrace the peace that comes from trusting God. True serenity is found not in the stability of this world—but in the unshakable foundation of Jesus Christ.
Will you choose to trust Him today?
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