Friday Fight 176: The Truth about Transitions
Every Friday, when I wake and pray, God places something on my heart to help fight darkness beginning in our minds. Today is FF176.
Let’s think about the last time we experienced a significant transition. This is something many people face this time of year. It’s a new school year, which always means transitions for teachers and students. Whether we have a child starting kindergarten or going off to college, things change daily for many people and it can be challenging. In some cases we are more prepared and other times these changes are unexpected. Either way our minds race toward the unknown. How can we combat the moment-to-moment uncertainties and mistakes made in times of transition, and what can we do to push forward to get to God’s end goal for us?
The Truth about Transitions:
Think about your most recent life transition. It could be starting a new job, the beginning or end of a relationship, or quitting a life-long addiction; all of which require a period of growth and adjustment. We will inevitably make mistakes when the boundaries of what others expect of us have yet to be established. Transitions can feel like we have been uprooted and even somewhat lost. There are times when our day-to-day life attempts to align with our new language, tempo, and possibly a new community. These adjustments could be alone or alongside others who are watching from a place of comfort. So now what?
What are some things we can do if the changes we are enduring are more painful than anticipated? Walking in the unknown is intimidating but also exciting. Why? Because wherever we are headed, God is already there; His comforting presence never leaves us! Deuteronomy 31:8 tells us exactly that, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Navigating a new, unexpected journey requires reinforcement of prayer to remain focused on only the present time. Our spiritual stamina will require us to seek God and stay focused solely on the present day, the next few hours, or, at times, the next thirty minutes. During these moments with God, it is essential to surrender our actions, decisions, and things we cannot control to avoid overthinking every created scenario in our minds where we fail. Remember, our faith can be a guiding light in these moments.
When experiencing change and transitions, we can have an array of emotions, especially when things are not transpiring at the pace or tempo we are used to. We want the transition to go faster and to feel settled again. Our position with God will strengthen when we allow His strength and grace to compel us through our uncertainties. Let’s display this same grace with others, especially when we make mistakes while learning. Grace is a powerful tool in these moments; it supports us and helps us understand that mistakes are part of the learning process. Leave the worry and fear of failure with God and accept the freedom that accompanies spending every day with Him.
Pastor Shannon
New Life River Church