Devotions for a Busy Business Person, no. 277 – Changing paradigms

Two moments on my travels have shown me how important it is to be adaptable, attentive and adept at trying new things.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.” — Isaiah 43:18

In Rwanda, I met specialists in conservation agriculture from across Africa. They shared innovations born from their own hard-won experience in the fields. I realised many of the most creative ideas are not flowing from Europe or North America, but from African farmers working faithfully with the land.

“No one pours new wine into old wineskins… new wine must be poured into new wineskins.” — Luke 5:37–38

The lesson continued in England with four of my grandchildren. As we played games, explored museums, and made up rules to fit their younger siblings — or their old grandfather — I marvelled at how quickly they adapted. They adjusted, mostly with joy, reshaping the moment so everyone could join in.

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is.” — Romans 12:2

In our business and organisations, let us look at old ways of doing things not as set in stone, but as malleable as modeller’s clay that bend to new information you intentionally seek.

Prayer

God, let me embrace the wisdom of change and use the lessons to your glory.

Amen