This article originally appeared in Deacon Magazine.
We've heard the statements: "Life Happens." "Change is the new normal." "Transition can lead to better things." All of that is well and good (and generally well-meaning), but what do you do when the inevitable transitions of life become a personal reality? While not all changes are bad and some are self-chosen, the life transitions we all face deeply affect our lives. Transitions are sometimes eagerly anticipated, and other times they are unplanned and unwanted. But they always involve a change.
Throughout history, Christians have faced change. How we respond to life transitions — both small and large — can bless others who will face what we are navigating today.
With the right approach, attitude, and action, life transitions can be manageable and even positive. Here are five principles that will equip us to walk confidently through periods of transition.
1. Prayer
"Don't worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God" (Phil. 4:6).
The most beneficial discipline to calm the spirit and prepare us for what needs to be done is prayer. It's the spiritual resource we often neglect. Through prayer, we cry out to God and seek to understand His will. Through prayer, we ask for His power to obey even when we don't have all the details.
When we're tempted to worry and complain, we make our requests known to God. We pray for His peace, "which surpasses every thought," to guard our hearts and minds (Phil. 4:7). Prayer keeps our focus where it should be — on God, His desire for our lives, and His protection and guidance. Let's make prayer a daily priority, even during seasons of transition.
2. Planning
"Commit your activities to the Lord, and your plans will be achieved" (Prov. 16:3).
It's always best to plan and organize according to God's will. We don't allow ourselves to fall in the trap of busy work. As we seek God's will through prayer, Bible study, and wise counsel from other Christians, we can write in a journal or notebook what we hear Him saying. Planning will help us prioritize and keep our focus on God-given goals during times of transition.
3. People
"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a difficult time" (Prov. 17:17).
Others can and should be a significant source of help. When we call on friends during transitions, we often will find the encouragement we need and expertise we didn't know others have. This significantly lowers our stress levels. When we're faced with a time of transition, instead of being overwhelmed, we can contact friends, neighbors, or relatives who will be willing to assist. Frequently, others who are part of a Sunday School class or church are glad to have the opportunity to help. Let's not deny them the blessing, thinking we don't want to seem "needy." All will be richly blessed as ministry is given and received.
4. Perspective
"God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble" (Ps. 46:1).
We need to take a fresh look at God and His Word, not at the present circumstances. We must not become discouraged or disheartened when times are especially hard. Life may be hectic and harried. There may be difficult and painful days ahead, but God is in control. He can bring good out of the most difficult, painful, or confusing circumstances (Rom. 8:28). In times of transition, God's peace can comfort our hearts. God's perspective can encourage us as we remember, "Weeping may spend the night, but there is joy in the morning" (Ps. 30:5b).
5. Perseverance
"If you do nothing in a difficult time, your strength is limited" (Prov. 24:10).
We must never give up hope, no matter what! There will be days of adversity for all of us. But God is able to do in our lives what we could never do. When we feel overcome, weary, or defeated, we need to remind ourselves that it's not our strength that counts, but God's. He loves His children. And though He doesn't remove all the problems of life, He is with us as He takes us through them. As He guides, we will experience triumph in the midst of transition.