Transitions

Transitions are a part of life.  Some of them we like while others we distain with a passion.  Some of them we initiate while others come as a result of life and decisions of others.  Whether or not we want change to come it is going to happen no matter how hard we try to stop them.  I am presently in one of my biggest transitions in my life.  As many may know that on Sunday, September 7, I resigned as pastor of Bethel A/G.  This was not an easy decision considering the Lord has not revealed the next season of ministry.  Through many confirmations and an inner peace from the Lord I know that I am walking the pathway that God has for me at the present time.  We all must understand that as a believer in Jesus Christ it is always a walk of faith.  Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" and verse 6 "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who come to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."  I am confident of what I do not see at this time for God has promised to open a new door once He has confirmed in my heart that my time was done in my present ministry.  My desire is to please Him therefore to obey Him comes before any personal comfort or whether or not it makes sense to other people.  Now back to transitions that we all face.  Here are a couple of words of encouragement.  First, accept the reality that transitions (change) is normal.  In fact the Lord uses times to transitions to perfect our character in Him if we will allow His work in us.  Second, keep your basic spiritual disciplines active and alive on a daily basis.  It is the Lord who directs and guides and strengthens and encourages us so we must continually place ourselves in His presence so we are hearing His voice on a daily basis.  We do not always like what God is doing but by remembering that His plan is always better then our plan ought to make is easier for us to listen to Him.  Third, never let go of hope regardless of how it looks.  Psalm 27:13-14 "I am still confident of this; I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.  Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord."  I am confident that when this transition if complete that both Bethel A/G and myself will be stronger and healthier then before.  God works in and through us to accomplish His goal of building His church.

May the God of all wisdom and power be with you in your transitions of life.

Pastor John