Downward

tran·si·tion

/tranˈziSH(ə)n, tranˈsiSH(ə)n/


noun

1. the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.

Change is rarely easy, especially major change. And that’s also true for the transitions that facilitate change. Yet it’s important to remember with the Lord there is purpose in all He allows.

In the book Stuck! Navigating the Transitions of Life and Leadership, Terry Walling identifies six characteristics that signal you may be entering a transition:

  • Persistent restlessness
  • Isolation, even in the midst of a crowd
  • Internal confusion
  • External conflict
  • Hunger to hear from God, yet He is silent
  • Inability to move forward or change the situation

The presence of three or more of these indicates you may be entering a transition.

I expect most of us would rather not sign up to experience any of these! So when we do , it’s easy to get focused on seeking what direction we should go. This is one reason we may not be hearing from God. He isn’t ready for us to go anywhere!

Instead, transitions are actually an invitation from God into deeper intimacy. They are powerful opportunities for transformation to take place within us. But for this to happen we have to embrace them and not resist  or seek to terminate them prematurely.

In James 1:12 we’re told, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” The Greek word for remaining steadfast is hupomone and literally means “to remain under.”

I highly recommend if you are going through a transition purchasing Terry Walling’s book, Stuck! He is an excellent coach and the questions at the end of each chapter are priceless. If you take time to answer them, I believe you will find this tremendously helpful. Then, find a friend who will talk through your responses with you.

Being coached through a transition can also prove helpful if the Lord leads you to do this, especially if you’re struggling to shift from focusing on finding direction for your next step rather than diving deep to evaluate, surrender and align (See the video below for more on this). There is a cost involved with coaching and one key way the Lord can direct you is through what He does and doesn’t provide for. He is so able to provide exactly what you need. Ask Him! And keep your eyes open. He may provide something else or provide in a way you aren’t expecting!

A disciple is a learner and follower of Christ. May the Lord make His grace abound enabling you to follow Him well, even when He leads you into a transition, so you learn all He wants you to, so you experience all the transformation He wants you to, becoming more like Him while you wait on His timing for this trial/intense period of life-changing blessing to end.

It will be so worth it! 

Coaching Request Form

Video: The Transition Cycle

Resources

You Are Loved Booklet

Learning From Story To Better Embrace God’s Story In Your Life

Original XTAWG Booklet

Ministering Out Of Brokenness

Heart Expressions

Charting Your Course XTAWG Booklet

Christmas XTAWG Booklet

Hope and Help for Hurting Wives

Preparing For the New Year XTAWG Booklet

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