But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. (Psalm 33:11 )

What image comes to mind when you hear the words fixed or unchangeable? What emotion do these words bring up in you? Mine aren’t very positive.

I remember a time when I had to scrap the plans already in motion for our women's groups to accommodate the “unchangeable” plans being made for the whole church—resulting in discouragement and frustration over what seemed like inflexible and unrelenting disregard for our team. Running up against something that is unchangeable or fixed doesn’t have positive connotations for me

But, when I think of God’s unchanging character it gives me hope. I know he is always for me and never against me. God always has my best interest at heart. God’s immutability is the solid foundation where our striving can rest. God's immutability provides peace and comfort in our constantly changing world.

I live in California, and as you might know, we have had massive amounts of rain dumped on our state since January through atmospheric rivers. These storms have caused sinkholes in roads that were previously without fault. Yet when the unexpected storms came, the foundation of the road was washed away. The storm revealed the road's faulty foundation. Thankfully, there are no sinkholes with God. He is solid, his character is unchanging. When the storms of life come, the Lord is our rock-solid foundation.

What does it mean for me that my Father does not change?

My identity in him cannot change. He has adopted me.

My salvation is sealed in him by the Holy Spirit.

His promises are Yes and Amen to me.

He will lift my head in times of trouble.

He will enable me to stand when my knees are feeble and shaking from the events of life.

Nothing has happened to me that has not already passed through his hands, and he already has a way of escape planned for me.

His love for me is not based on what I do. Therefore, his love does not change based on my performance (or lack thereof.)

His love is everlasting and will not wane or cease.

Unfortunately, life’s circumstances can sometimes erode these truths just like recent rains have done to the roads in California. Therefore, it is important to shore up the foundation of our hearts by remembering that God does not change, and he will always support us when storms arise.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8 )