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| Courtesy: Expressing Change |
“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven....” Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Devotion Five. July 5, 2025
Growing up, I often heard the phrase,
“When in Rome, do as the Romans do,” which emphasises adapting to local
culture, behaviour, and customs. This principle has its limits, particularly
when it comes to food, where cultural differences can be quite significant. For
example, in West Africa, some people eat foods like snails and caterpillars,
which are considered taboo in my tribe. Nevertheless, over time, one can adjust
to and even appreciate these differences, which is a crucial aspect of adapting
to change.
This experience reminds me of the importance of timing and adaptability, as highlighted in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. It reminds us that there is a time for everything, including change and adjustment. As believers and leaders, we face various changes in life, politics, and faith, making adaptability crucial for building resilience and creating opportunities in challenging times.
Moreover, believers and leaders who fail to adapt to change often face opposition from church members, the community, or the organisation they work for or lead. This is evident in countries like Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, and South Africa, where rigid leadership has led to uprisings. God uses these experiences to teach us valuable lessons, as the Lamenter says, “There is a time for everything under the sun” (Ecc. 3:1).
In light of this, leaders and believers need to adapt to the demanding pressure of change while being guided by God’s wisdom. This wisdom helps us avoid falling into unbiblical change or running amok. For example, the Jews once challenged Jesus, asking why his disciples disobeyed their ancestral traditions by not washing their hands before eating. Jesus silenced them with His wisdom, prioritising God’s command over human traditions (Matthew 15:2-3).
As we apply this lesson, we realise that adaptability and adjustment to change are crucial for effective leadership. By seeking wisdom from God, we can navigate change with ease, build strong relationships, cultivate resilience, and seize new opportunities. God's desire is for us to thrive in an ever-changing landscape. A good leader listens and adapts to change willingly.
As we reflect on our own lives, what cultural infractions or values hinder our ability to adapt to change? Let's recall the story of Paul rebuking Peter, who was hypocritical in adapting to change (Galatians 2:11-21). What lessons can we draw from Peter and Paul regarding adapting to change?
Dear God, thank you for reminding me about the importance of adapting to change as a leader. Guide me and continue to help me learn this principle and apply it in my life and leadership, embracing change whenever it calls. May Your name be praised.
Amen.
Writer, Critic, and Teacher
