Life is a series of changes and transitions. We move houses, change jobs, make new friends and say goodbye to old ones. We grieve what is gone and anticipate what is coming. Changes can be hard and frustrating, but they can also be life-giving and life-altering.

Over the five years of ministry with Reconciled World I have seen various seasons of change. There have been months where things have been steady, personnel has remained the same and programs have moved forward without much major adjustment. But that has been more rare than the norm. We have also experienced a great deal of transition in our time as well. Some projects and roles have completely changed, ministries have expanded, offices have relocated and great leaders have moved continents, moved programs and moved on. As a ministry we know that transitions are inevitable but that realization doesn’t always make it easy. So, as we face varying degrees of change in our lives and ministries I ask the question: how are you doing with change?

Two Things I know about change but need to be reminded of:

  1. Transition can lead to transformation

Part of the definition of the word “change” says: “To make radically different: transform.”[1] God uses transition in our life to shape, mold and transform us. Change builds trust, develops perseverance and is part of the process of sanctification that we go through as believers. If you desire to be fruitful and prosperous in your life and spiritual journey with Jesus then you must be willing to lean into the difficulties and surrender to Jesus in the change.

  1. The full picture is rarely clear

Often when we approach God during a season of change we want Him to give us a clear picture of what our lives should be. We long to know where to go, what to do etc. Wouldn’t it help so much if we just knew what God was planning for us? However, we read in Scripture that this isn’t always the case. God said, “Go to a land I will show you,” (Genesis 12: 1) and not a land I have shown you. “Follow me and I will make you fishers of men,” (Matthew 4:19), not follow me because I have made you fishers of men. The picture isn’t always clear right away but we are called to obey anyways.[2]

Two cautions when facing transition

  1. Don’t miss God

God is with you in the midst of this change, don’t miss him by focusing on the wrong things. The rich young ruler in Matthew 19:22 missed the opportunity to embrace a life of purpose because he was too consumed with his property and material wealth. Don’t miss what Jesus is offering. Be teachable, humble and obedient to what God has for you. You can trust him.[2]

  1. Don’t forget your identity is not in what you do

As a Christian, your life is now defined by what Christ has done for you. He has adopted you into the family of God (Ephesians 1:5). You are loved, valued and given a great purpose in the kingdom of God. (1 John 3:1) Lest you forget, no matter the jobs, roles, opportunities or titles you have in life, those are simply a side-note to a much greater title God has given you: a child of God.[3]

Two questions to ask when facing transition?

  1. What is pleasing to the Lord?

It is easy when going through a season of transitions to be consumed with your immediate circumstances. But Paul in Ephesians 5:10 gives us a great reminder. “and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.” As followers of Jesus we should constantly be seeking to live out our faith and imitate Jesus. How is God calling you to live out your faith and please him during your season of change?

  1. What am I fearing?

Fear of the unknown is a common battle we face during seasons of change. The truth is, uncertainty is part of life and learning to cope with it in a healthy way is a huge first step. Ask yourself, where are my fears coming from? What are some small steps I can take to calm myself of these fears? What promises does Jesus give in the face of these fears? How would God want me to please him in this? Meditate on Phil. 4:6-7.

Two ways to be encouraged through change

  1. Don’t cry because it is over, smile because it happened

While we can’t guarantee the opportunities we have will stay we can celebrate the opportunities granted to us along our way. We thank God for his gracious provision even after we have moved on. God wants to give us a perspective of gratitude, no matter where the transitions take us.[3] For those over the years who have left and moved on from RW, thank you for your incredible service and beautiful impact! For those who have remained let’s celebrate what God has done through our seasons of transition!

  1. God is working out his good promises for you and me

The Bible tells us that God cares about the details of our lives (Psalm 37:23) and He is preparing us for the good works He has prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10).

You can rest at night, and sleep in peace even in the middle of a transition (Psalm 127:2) because God is looking out for you, and will help and strengthen you when your heart is His.[3]

A steadfast heart

There is much that could be said, but most of all I want to encourage each of us as we walk through various seasons of transition. Be strong and courageous, trust in the Lord and be obedient to His work in your life, ministry and future. It’s ok if you shed some tears, say hard goodbyes and grieve the changes you have faced, just know that God is working out His plans in you. Trust Him and He will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6).

How are you doing with change? I am praying for those of you I know are walking through transition. May God remind you of His faithfulness and may your heart remain steadfast. To God be the glory!

Growth Point

Change is an inevitable part of life, through which God allows for us to grow, mature and develop trust in Him.

Scripture Point

Reflect on Proverbs 3:5-6. What does this mean for you as you face transition?

Action Point

If you are walking through transition, take a few minutes this week to ask a friend for prayer. If you aren’t walking through transition take time this week to seek out a friend who is and ask how you can pray for them.

[1]https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/change
[2]http://www1.cbn.com/devotions/dont-miss-god-transition
[3]https://www.thinke.org/blog/navigating-transitions
https://www.crosswalk.com/family/career/the-necessity-of-discomfort-and-change.html
https://www.charismamag.com/life/women/10173-4-keys-to-how-god-brings-transition