Trusting God Through Change: From “What If” to “What If God?”

There’s something invigorating about changing seasons. I feel it especially in the transition from summer to fall—the longer shadows, crisp mornings, the scent of pumpkin spice (yes, even if it’s controversial!), college football, and Leaves from Bath & Body Works (IYKYK!).

But not all change is as simple as switching home décor or updating a wardrobe.

When change is unexpected or outside our control, it can feel unsettling:

- What if I don’t finish grad school?

- What if I’m not ready to have another child?

- What if this new chapter isn’t what I had dreamed of?

At its core, these “What ifs” reveal a struggle to trust God’s providence and His promises. One promise that never fails is Jeremiah 29:11:

“...the plans He has for [me]...plans to prosper [me] and not to harm [me], plans to give [me] hope and a future.”

This is a reminder that God’s plans are bigger than our doubts—and this promise is for you too.

Reframing Your “What Ifs”

Instead of letting doubt take the lead, let’s reframe our thinking:

✨ What if God has bigger plans for me beyond my schooling?
✨ What if God will prepare me for this child?
✨ What if this new chapter is more than I ever dreamed?

Every doubtful “What if” can be transformed into a “What if God?” moment. It’s a shift from fear to trust, from questioning to certainty—not in ourselves, but in our omnipotent God.

A Prayer for Trust

Loving and Providential Lord,
I am struggling to trust You with ________. I keep thinking, “What if (doubt)?” But I choose to TRUST YOU! Help me reframe my doubt into, “What if (hope)?” Thank You for Your prosperous and hope-filled plans for my life. I love You!
Amen.

Why Trusting God Matters

When we lean on God during life’s transitions, we:

- Reduce anxiety about the unknown

- Find peace in His timing

- Open ourselves to blessings we may not have imagined

Life’s seasons—both literal and metaphorical—are opportunities to grow in faith. When we replace doubt with trust, we step confidently into the plans God has for us.