Embracing Change
- Andrea Rose-Butler
- Sep 7
- 5 min read
Week 1: Embracing Change — How to Navigate Major Life Transitions
Change. We can’t escape it. Whether it’s a new job, a move, a relationship transition, becoming an empty nester, stepping into a new calling, or letting go of something that once defined you, change shows up in all our lives. Sometimes it feels devastating, and at other times, it feels divine. And even when it’s good, it can still feel overwhelming.
But here’s the truth: change is not punishment.
Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us: “There is a time and a season for everything under heaven.” Just as seasons shift in nature, so too do seasons change in our lives. Transition is not only about where you’re going, it’s about who you’re becoming. Through it all, one thing remains constant: God never changes.
5 Tools to Navigate Life Transitions
Acknowledge the Shift: Don’t minimize it. Don’t over-spiritualize it to the point of avoidance. Be honest with yourself: “This is hard. This feels uncertain. This is new.” Naming it gives you permission to process it.
Grieve What Was: Even when God is birthing something new, it’s okay to mourn what you’re leaving behind. Change often comes with loss, so give yourself space to grieve, release, and then grow.
Anchor in God’s Character: When the future feels uncertain, focus on what remains constant. God’s goodness, faithfulness, and promises.
Find a New Rhythm: New seasons require new systems. What old habits won’t serve you in this next chapter? Adjust your routines, boundaries, and relationships to align with where God is taking you.
Surround Yourself with Support: You don’t have to transition alone. Whether it’s a coach, counselor, small group, or trusted friend, let someone in. God provides daily bread, not a year’s supply. You don’t have to have it all figured out to take the next step.
Isaiah 43:19 reminds us: “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” Sometimes we miss the new because we cling too tightly to the old. If God is shifting you, He’s also equipping you. There is grace for your transition.
Weekly Challenge:
Reflect: What transitions am I resisting?
Release: What do I need to let go of to embrace this season?
Refrain: Which truths from God’s Word will anchor me now?
Week 2: Embracing Change — Physical Reset: Revamping Your Health and Fitness Goals
Last week, we talked about navigating major life transitions with courage and grace. This week, let’s shift gears to your physical reset. Because here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup.
When we think about embracing change, our minds usually go to career, relationships, or spiritual growth. However, the foundation of showing up well in those areas is your physical health.
This is not about chasing beauty standards or squeezing into old jeans; it’s about being a steward of your body. Honoring the body God has entrusted to you.
Start with an Honest Inventory
Before you can reset, you need to know where you’re starting:
How’s my energy level today?
Am I getting quality sleep?
Am I moving my body regularly in ways I actually enjoy?
Is my food fueling my purpose or slowing me down?
Small Changes, Big Results
Don’t underestimate small shifts. A glass of water first thing in the morning, a 15-minute walk, or adding more vegetables to your plate can completely shift your energy.
Set God-Centered Goals
Unrealistic goals are dream-killers. Instead:
Create SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, time-bound).
Tie your goals to your WHY.
Pray over your health journey.
Invite God into your workouts, your meals, and even your rest.
This is not about perfection, it’s about progress. Missed workouts, skipped steps, or “cheat days” don’t make you a failure. They make you human. Get back up, and keep moving.
When your body is strong, your mind is clear, and your energy is steady, you are free to fully walk in your calling.
Weekly Challenge: Pick one area of your health to reset this week, whether it’s movement, sleep, hydration, or nutrition.
Week 3: Embracing Change — Self-Care Reset: The Power of Healthy Routines
When life gets overwhelming, the first thing we drop is usually our self-care. We tell ourselves we’ll rest, pray, or recharge “when things slow down,” but the TRUTH is that they rarely do.
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s stewardship!
1 Corinthians 6:19 reminds us: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit?” Caring for yourself is honoring God with the temple He gave you.
Redefining Self-Care
Self-care is more than bubble baths and spa days. It’s building a lifestyle that helps you thrive.
The Power of Routines
Routines create structure, and structure brings peace. Think morning devotionals, journaling, or a nightly gratitude practice. Even 10 minutes of prayer, stretching, or mindful silence can reframe your whole day.
Small Shifts = Big Impact
You don’t need to overhaul everything. Consistency compounds. One walk a day. One home-cooked meal. One bedtime prayer. Over time, these build resilience and strength.
Spiritual Self-Care
Jesus Himself withdrew to pray. If he needed to pause and refuel, so do we. Protect space for Scripture, prayer, and silence in your daily rhythm.
Self-Care Tips:
Create a “self-care menu” (a list of simple, life-giving practices you can choose from). Check out my mini guide “Finding ME Time in Your Busy Day.
Aim for consistency, not perfection.
Use habit stacking: pray while making coffee, stretch while brushing your teeth.
Weekly Challenge: Pick one self-care practice this week and commit to it.
Week 4: Embracing Change — Financial Fresh Start: Renewing Your Money Mindset
The way you think about money impacts more than your wallet; it shapes your peace, your choices, and your future.
For many of us, money has been a source of stress, shame, or silence. But God has called us to stewardship, not fear.
Resetting Your Money Mindset
Identify Your Money Story: What messages did you grow up hearing about money? Do you see it as scarce or abundant?
Renew Your Mind with Scripture: Romans 12:2 reminds us: “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” God calls us to contentment, generosity, and wise stewardship.
Practical Reset Steps
Budget: Create a plan that reflects your needs and values.
Savings: Start small; it's not the amount that matters, but staying consistent over time.
Debt: Tackle it with clarity and without shame.
Generosity: Money is a tool, not your master. Find ways to give, even if it's your time.
Prayer: Invite God into your finances. He cares about your money as much as your ministry.
Reflection Questions
What is one belief about money I need to release?
What small financial step can I take this week toward a healthier future?
3 John 1:2 says: “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” God desires for you to prosper in body, mind, spirit, and finances.
Weekly Challenge: Take one tangible step this week, whether it’s starting a savings account, reviewing your budget, or praying over your finances.
Your Turn
We’ve spent the last four weeks discussing changing, navigating transitions, resetting your health, prioritizing self-care, and renewing your financial mindset. Now it’s your turn:
Which area of change are you embracing right now, and what step are you committed to taking this week?
Share your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear your story and cheer you on. And if you want to delve deeper, don’t miss the Empowered to Live podcast, where I unpack each of these topics with additional tools, encouragement, and faith-filled truth.
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