Have you ever been going along in life, doing what you normally do, when unexpectedly, you find yourself in the middle of huge changes? It might be caused by a significant event like a job loss or illness. The normal routine is turned upside down. All of a sudden you are facing transitions, trying to figure out what to do next.
God promises His presence with us during those unanticipated or unwanted times. Jesus gave us the promise in Matthew 28:20:
…and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.
In an interview with Kathy Carlton Willis,she shared how her faith is sustaining her during the time of transitions. More than one area has changed for she and her husband—their income source, housing, church family, and location—and they multiple face transitions. One altered aspect of life often affects all other areas of normalcy. Here is what she shared:
Here are 5 things to remember when living through transitions:
- God’s presence calms us in the midst of chaos when we feel lost or alone.
- Focus on Gods presence, not the people that let you down.
- Practice the presence of God, remembering He is in the room with you. Shut off distractions to have alone time with God.
- Ask God to give others grace. God’s grace is for all.
- Give yourself grace. Receive grace from God so you can give it out. Grace can help you love those who have been unloving to you.
“Transitions blindside us. We can choose to be in crisis or in Christ. ~ Kathy Carlton Willis”
God is all-knowing and sovereign. No matter what the transitions are, remember the promises of God’s presence.
And He said, “My presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14
You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever. Psalm 16:11
Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? Psalm 139:7
The promise in Philippians 1:6 encourages me when I feel stuck not knowing what to do next. Kathy shared this verse at the end of the interview, reminding us that God is the originator of the work within us, not us. He gives us the promise of completion.
…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
How do you see God at your during transitions?
