Change is everywhere, and we will have to change and transition in response to our circumstances and relationships, or risk finding ourselves stuck or suffering from our refusal to move forward when faced with change.
In designing the seasons, God revealed how change and transition work and the wisdom to be found in following the ebb and flow of what God is doing in and around us and in the season we are in. It's important to be thankful for the previous season and then look for ways to celebrate where we are now and what is ahead.
I've learned the hard way: instead of holding on to what I know, be prepared and receptive to change. Because whether we like it or not, we will face transition points all through our lives; from a child to a teenager, teenager to an adult, employee to employer, single to a couple, couple to a family, letting go as your children become adults, and from having no responsibilities to having others to think of and care for.
If we own a business and want that business to continue to grow and develop, we will have to transition our thinking from working "in" the business to "working on the business". That means change and a willingness to step back and write an overall plan, implement necessary changes, delegate roles, grow as a leader and learn to trust others so that we don't have to do everything ourselves.
The key question is, "Will I fight these changes, or look for what God is doing in my midst and choose to embrace each opportunity, challenge, a new beginning and the chance to grow"?
If you realise you have become stuck in a transition phase, I encourage you to:
1. Stop and assess the point you came to a standstill? Where did you fail to go to another level or take the next step when needed?
Ask yourself, "what mindsets, fears, or disappointments have caused me to fail to move forward in my life healthily and productively"?
2. Pray about everything and everyone in your world, determine to deal with and let go of any hurts from the past, and listen for God's answer.
3. Take some time to write down where you would like to be in the future and the new opportunities that you can see opening up.
4. Assess the necessary steps to move forward. You may have to stop participating in certain pastimes and choose new ones, be prepared for some relationships to change, upskill in an area of your life, and do things differently as you allow God to work in you.
Be encouraged for your dreams and the future God has for you are on the other side of your next steps as you choose to make the transition.
It will be worth it because God has amazing plans for your life, and they're always far greater than anything you could ever imagine. (Ephesians 3:20)
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9)
"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." (Isaiah 43:19)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, present your requests to God with thanksgiving. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-8)
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that you go before me and guide me in the way to go. I want to keep moving forward, so I ask that you help me transition well through every area of my life and continue learning, discovering, and developing personally and in my relationship with you and those around me. In Jesus name Amen.