Treading the Waters of Transition

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Transition can be a tricky thing.

If you’re not careful, you can flow from one season to the next wondering if you’re right on target or just some random driftwood caught in the tide.

So, how do you manage the waters of transition like a pro?

Photo Credit: Tim Marshall

Photo Credit: Tim Marshall

1.)    Holding on to Purpose –

For the better part of my life I’ve been passionate about 3 things: Jesus, people, and the arts. Since college, I’ve made a living as either an artist, a teacher, or a pastor. Some days there was nothing sexy about the work because it was work.

People say “Do what you love and you’ll never work another day in your life.” But they fail to mention the amount of work you’ll do as you move toward doing what you love.

There will be times where you’re facing transition and the best thing you can do is fall back on what you know while you contend for the direction God is leading you.

There’s nothing wrong in doing honest work. Maybe you’re not in your dream job, but at least you’re in a sustainable place where you can quiet your heart before God. This step is so practical, many people miss it (Proverbs 24:27).

2.)    Dig into Discipline –

God uses seasons of preparation to grow you into where you’re going. Even where you are right now, He’s crafting a certain skill, relationship, or element of your character that will play a vital role in where you’re headed next. Today’s triumph is tomorrow’s stepping stone. Don’t let the baggage of “right now” weigh you down. Don’t let the temporary things override what is eternal (Philippians 3:17-21).

Let your motivation and discipline for today be persuaded by an eternal mindset.

3.)    Never Underestimate the Power of Common Sense –

There are some things you just know to do...

  • It’s nearing bedtime, I should brush my teeth.
  • My car is acting weird, maybe you should get that checked out.
  • This decision doesn’t feel right. I don’t think I should do this.

You’ve been given a conscience for a reason. Listen to it. Don’t spiritualize that which is easily understood. Make good, consistent decisions and don’t overthink where you are. Please listen…if you don’t have something to hold down the bills, forget about the dream, cause you’re already drowning.

Passion can’t be the sole source of your direction. What should guide you is the call upon your life.

Where is God telling you to go? Get ready. Prepare. Find firm ground, then launch out as you discover where God is leading you (Habakkuk 2:1-3; Phillipians 3:14).

4.)    Stay Hungry –

As seasons build, you’ll find that like layers of a sandwich, there are defining moments that stack up to create who you are. Don’t let one or even four bad experiences define who you are. Don’t give power to circumstances beyond your control or to things lingering in your past. Fight for the joy that is Jesus in your life. Stay hungry for your relationship with Him (John 6:35).

Let your walk with Christ be the guidepost through each transition. This way you’ll keep your focus on what matters the most.

5.)    Find Community –

The love of Jesus is wholly fulfilled in the presence of His people (Hebrews 10:24-25). Whatever purpose your called to, if it’s truly of God, then it’s so much bigger than you that you’re going to need others to:

- Fulfill It.

- Help You Grow Through It.

- Serve Alongside You.

Community will keep you from stagnating. God will use other people to push and provoke you further into the purpose He has prepared for you.

 

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