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Transformational Transition

Transition defined means going from one stage of growth to another stage of growth with a potentially difficult state in between. Or at least that is my definition due to my limited knowledge of God’s Word and my experience. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as changing from one state, stage, place, or subject to another. It looks like my definition is close!

Let’s look at three biblical principles of transition:

We read in the Bible that God remains the same no matter what. It is we that do the changing, in essence to become more like Jesus. In Psalm 102:27 the writer declares that God remains the same and His years have no end. In Hebrews 13:8, one of my favorite verses, we read that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. When God is leading us through change and transition, we can take hope that He remains the same while He is working change in us.
In Christ we are changing daily. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 4:16 with an understanding that although the outward person is perishing, the inward person is renewed day by day. Getting our eyes off of what is going on around us and on to what is going on within us is the goal during transition.
Our current season prepares us for the next one to come. If we can understand this before going into transition the growth stage from one place to another brings more joy. There are many biblical examples so let’s look at a few.

Here are five inspirational Bible examples about change and transition:

Jesus’ transition from heaven to earth. Think about that! Jesus laid aside His divinity to become human and obey the will of His Father, so ultimately all who believe could join Him once again in His home in Heaven.
David’s transition from a shepherd to a king. God chose a shepherd boy, one of the lowest trades of the day, to become one of the greatest kings over His chosen people.
Paul’s transition from persecutor to preacher. This one should rock your boat. If you know someone doing the devil’s work, take heart, there is hope. Saul’s transformation proves it.
Jesus’ disciples’ transition from fishermen to fisher of men. This one should really rock your boat. Jesus picked men from a trade who were untaught so He could teach them God’s way.
Joseph’s transition from prisoner to Prime Minister over Egypt. Joseph had every right to be angry, resentful, and bitter. But instead, he forgave, became better and the transition open the door for God to use him to feed the world, including the family that betrayed him.

Some things God shows you as He is transitioning you:

You start to feel uncomfortable and restless in your current season. Your passions may start to shift.
God persistently turns your attention to a new season. Wherever you turn, you hear sermons about it, you read the Bible and see Bible verses about change and transition, or you read an article like this one!
Doors keep closing in your current season because God is preparing you to transition to the next season.
You might experience pain before a major transition. For example, for our salvation to come Jesus went through the pain of the Cross.
The best thing to do when you sense a time of transition is coming is to stay connected to God in prayer and His word and continue to seek godly counsel to guide you during the process.

Finally, God promises to help you deal with change:

God’s mercies are new each morning to help us deal with change (Lamentations 3:21-23).

The word of God equips us and lights our path through change (Psalm 119:105).

You can deal with change because the Bible promises that we can do all things in Christ. He will strengthen us through the new season (Philippians 4:13).

In the end everything works out for the good of those who love God (Romans 8:28).

One of the greatest blessings of transition is just that. It is a seasonal link that takes a person from one point to another. Although a necessary link, it is temporary, that is until the next transition takes place. Hold on tight because Jesus is in your boat and He will calm the storm.

Dr. Michele Morgan

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