Chapter 5: Trusting God Through Transitions — How Faith Sustains You in Seasons of Change
The Blessings of Obedience
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, forgive me of my sins. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. Use these words to edify, encourage, and build up Your people. Speak through me today, Lord. Bless every reader, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
The Power of a Daily Clean Slate
For those joining me for the first time, you’ll often hear me begin with, “Father, forgive me of sin.” Some time ago, the Lord gave me a revelation that before I go to sleep and the moment I rise, I should ask God for forgiveness. Why? Because the Bible says in Revelation 12:10 that the accuser of the brethren—Satan—accuses us before God day and night.
By beginning and ending each day with repentance, you clear the spiritual slate. You leave no room for the enemy’s accusations. It’s a simple but powerful practice. None of us can look over our day under a microscope and be certain we’ve done everything right. So, just say: “Father, forgive me of sin.” Amen.
Hearing God’s Voice in Times of Transition
Yesterday, we discussed the critical importance of receiving direction from God. When facing a transition, be it personal, professional, or spiritual, you must be grounded in God’s instruction.
Jesus said, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27). Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you (James 4:8). As you seek Him wholeheartedly, you will hear clearly from Him. That word from God becomes your anchor when the winds of transition try to shake your faith.
When Human Promises Fail, God’s Word Prevails
During one of my own transitions, I received a verbal commitment from leadership that was later broken. My family had moved across the country based on this promise. When that vow was not fulfilled, it could have devastated us—if not for the firm foundation we had in God.
Ecclesiastes 5:5 says, “It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it.” People may fail, but God never does.
Like Abraham, we must “not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but be strengthened in faith, giving glory to God” (Romans 4:20). Abraham was “fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised”(Romans 4:21). That’s the same confidence I had. Regardless of human failure, God provided for us because we obeyed His direction.
God’s Unfailing Support
Let me tell you something: God has your back. That assurance doesn’t come from the world—it comes from the Almighty. He does not sleep nor slumber (Psalm 121:4). His angels are encamped around those who fear Him (Psalm 34:7). Whatever the enemy means for evil, God can turn it for good (Genesis 50:20).
Romans 8:28 affirms, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” If you know you’re called, then trust that God will not fail you or forsake you.
Self-Care in Seasons of Change
Transitions can take a toll on your mental, emotional, and physical health. Take care of yourself:
-
Eat well.
-
Exercise regularly.
-
Get sufficient rest.
Why? Because Jeremiah 29:11 declares that God has a purpose for your life—“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” You can’t walk into that future if your body and mind are weary. Prioritize self-care so you can carry out God’s purpose effectively.
Focus on the Positive
While transitions often come with challenges, choose to focus on the good. When my family and I arrived in our new city, we didn’t have a place to stay. Finances were uncertain, and promises had been broken. But we chose to focus on God’s goodness.
Yes, acknowledge challenges—but also look for the hidden blessings. Even leaving California had unexpected benefits. Praise God through it all.
Break Big Changes Into Small Steps
Adjust gradually. We didn’t have a home when we arrived, but we kept moving forward. One step at a time, we worked toward stability. Eventually, we were able to secure a rental home and rebuild. Transition doesn’t happen overnight. Trust God for daily provision and take manageable steps forward.
Reflect on Past Experiences
Your history is filled with victories. Go back and reflect on how God brought you through before. Apply those lessons to your present. This isn’t your first storm—so don’t act like it is.
Peter began to sink when he focused on the wind and waves instead of Jesus (Matthew 14:30). Keep your eyes on Christ, the “author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2), and you’ll walk on water too.
Be Patient With Yourself
Change takes time. Don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go perfectly. Setbacks will come, but they don’t define you. Keep pressing forward, knowing that God is shaping you in the process.
Conclusion
Obedience to God in times of transition positions you to experience His faithfulness like never before. Trust His direction, care for yourself, and remain rooted in His Word.
Key Takeaways
-
Start and end your day with repentance to clear the slate and shut down the accuser’s access.
-
Seek clear direction from God before and during transitions—His voice brings stability.
-
Don’t be shaken by broken human promises—God’s Word always stands.
-
Practice self-care to remain physically and mentally strong for God’s assignment.
-
Focus on the good and praise God even when circumstances are challenging.
-
Reflect on past victories and be patient with your progress—God is still working.