Embracing New Seasons: A Journey of Faith and Trust
Life is a series of transitions. Whether we're moving homes, changing jobs, entering a new phase of parenting, or shifting our spiritual journey, change is inevitable. But how do we navigate these transitions with grace and purpose? How do we maintain our faith when stepping into the unknown?
The story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River offers profound insights into this very question. After 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, they stood at the threshold of the Promised Land. The journey had been long and difficult, but now they faced a new challenge: crossing a river at flood stage.
God's instructions were clear: "When you see the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord your God, and the Levitical priests carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it. Then you will know which way to go since you have never been this way before." (Joshua 3:3-4)
This passage teaches us a crucial lesson: Instead of focusing on uncertainty, we must focus on God leading us. The Ark of the Covenant, representing God's presence, went ahead of the people. It was their divine GPS, guiding them into uncharted territory.
But here's the kicker – the waters didn't part until the priests carrying the Ark stepped into the river. This reminds us that faith requires movement. It's not passive; it's active. We can't just sit and twiddle our thumbs, hoping for miracles. We need to step out in faith, trusting that God will make a way.
Think about it like this: Some musical instruments are "active," requiring an external power source to function properly. Our faith life is similar. We need to stay actively plugged into God's power – His presence, His Spirit, His Word – to navigate life's transitions effectively.
Once the Israelites crossed the Jordan, Joshua instructed representatives from each tribe to gather stones from the middle of the river. These stones were used to build a memorial on the other side. Why? "In the future, your children will ask you, 'What do these stones mean?' Then you can tell them, 'They remind us that the Jordan River stopped flowing when the Ark of the Lord's Covenant went across.'" (Joshua 4:6-7)
This act of remembrance teaches us the importance of marking God's faithfulness. We're not meant to live in the middle of past miracles, but we should carry reminders of God's goodness into our future. These "stones" become touchpoints of faith when we face new challenges.
So how do we practically step forward in faith during times of transition? Here are three key principles:
1. Drop the Weight
Hebrews 12:1 encourages us to "throw off everything that hinders." What mindsets, fears, or even past victories are you holding onto that might be holding you back? Sometimes we need to set down the "boulders" of past experiences – not to forget them, but to free ourselves for the journey ahead.
2. Step Forward in Faith
Just as Peter stepped out of the boat to walk on water towards Jesus, we're called to move forward even when circumstances feel uncertain. We're not called to wait until everything feels safe. Faith often means taking that first step before we see the full picture.
3. Run with Endurance
Transitions aren't just about showing up on day one with enthusiasm. They're about staying faithful to the call over the long haul. Hebrews 12 likens our faith journey to a marathon, not a sprint. There will be stumbles and setbacks, but the key is to keep getting back up and pressing forward.
As we navigate life's transitions, it's crucial to remember we're not alone. Just as the Israelites crossed the Jordan together, we're part of a community of faith. We're running this race side by side, encouraging one another and spurring each other on.
New seasons will always come, both personally and collectively. The question is: Will we passively watch them unfold, or will we boldly step into them, trusting Jesus every step of the way? The same God who has led us this far is leading us into the new season.
Let's not allow fear, nostalgia, or uncertainty to hold us back. Instead, let's fix our eyes on Jesus, "the pioneer and perfecter of faith" (Hebrews 12:2). He's gone before us, making a way where there seems to be no way.
As you stand at the threshold of your own "Jordan River" – whatever transition you're facing – remember these truths:
1. God's presence goes before you. Look for it, follow it.
2. Sometimes you need to step into the water before it parts. Have courage.
3. Build memorials of God's faithfulness. They'll strengthen your faith for future challenges.
4. You're part of a larger story and community. Lean on others and be an encouragement.
5. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. He's the author and finisher of your faith.
Life's transitions can be daunting, but they're also opportunities for tremendous growth and deeper trust in God. As you step into your new season, do so with expectancy. God is not finished writing your story. The same power that parted the Jordan River and raised Christ from the dead is at work in your life.
So take a deep breath, gather your courage, and step forward. The waters may look deep and the current strong, but remember – you serve a God who specializes in making ways through impossible situations. Trust His leading, embrace the journey, and watch in awe as He unfolds the next chapter of your story.
Your promised land awaits. It's time to cross your Jordan.
The story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River offers profound insights into this very question. After 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, they stood at the threshold of the Promised Land. The journey had been long and difficult, but now they faced a new challenge: crossing a river at flood stage.
God's instructions were clear: "When you see the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord your God, and the Levitical priests carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it. Then you will know which way to go since you have never been this way before." (Joshua 3:3-4)
This passage teaches us a crucial lesson: Instead of focusing on uncertainty, we must focus on God leading us. The Ark of the Covenant, representing God's presence, went ahead of the people. It was their divine GPS, guiding them into uncharted territory.
But here's the kicker – the waters didn't part until the priests carrying the Ark stepped into the river. This reminds us that faith requires movement. It's not passive; it's active. We can't just sit and twiddle our thumbs, hoping for miracles. We need to step out in faith, trusting that God will make a way.
Think about it like this: Some musical instruments are "active," requiring an external power source to function properly. Our faith life is similar. We need to stay actively plugged into God's power – His presence, His Spirit, His Word – to navigate life's transitions effectively.
Once the Israelites crossed the Jordan, Joshua instructed representatives from each tribe to gather stones from the middle of the river. These stones were used to build a memorial on the other side. Why? "In the future, your children will ask you, 'What do these stones mean?' Then you can tell them, 'They remind us that the Jordan River stopped flowing when the Ark of the Lord's Covenant went across.'" (Joshua 4:6-7)
This act of remembrance teaches us the importance of marking God's faithfulness. We're not meant to live in the middle of past miracles, but we should carry reminders of God's goodness into our future. These "stones" become touchpoints of faith when we face new challenges.
So how do we practically step forward in faith during times of transition? Here are three key principles:
1. Drop the Weight
Hebrews 12:1 encourages us to "throw off everything that hinders." What mindsets, fears, or even past victories are you holding onto that might be holding you back? Sometimes we need to set down the "boulders" of past experiences – not to forget them, but to free ourselves for the journey ahead.
2. Step Forward in Faith
Just as Peter stepped out of the boat to walk on water towards Jesus, we're called to move forward even when circumstances feel uncertain. We're not called to wait until everything feels safe. Faith often means taking that first step before we see the full picture.
3. Run with Endurance
Transitions aren't just about showing up on day one with enthusiasm. They're about staying faithful to the call over the long haul. Hebrews 12 likens our faith journey to a marathon, not a sprint. There will be stumbles and setbacks, but the key is to keep getting back up and pressing forward.
As we navigate life's transitions, it's crucial to remember we're not alone. Just as the Israelites crossed the Jordan together, we're part of a community of faith. We're running this race side by side, encouraging one another and spurring each other on.
New seasons will always come, both personally and collectively. The question is: Will we passively watch them unfold, or will we boldly step into them, trusting Jesus every step of the way? The same God who has led us this far is leading us into the new season.
Let's not allow fear, nostalgia, or uncertainty to hold us back. Instead, let's fix our eyes on Jesus, "the pioneer and perfecter of faith" (Hebrews 12:2). He's gone before us, making a way where there seems to be no way.
As you stand at the threshold of your own "Jordan River" – whatever transition you're facing – remember these truths:
1. God's presence goes before you. Look for it, follow it.
2. Sometimes you need to step into the water before it parts. Have courage.
3. Build memorials of God's faithfulness. They'll strengthen your faith for future challenges.
4. You're part of a larger story and community. Lean on others and be an encouragement.
5. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. He's the author and finisher of your faith.
Life's transitions can be daunting, but they're also opportunities for tremendous growth and deeper trust in God. As you step into your new season, do so with expectancy. God is not finished writing your story. The same power that parted the Jordan River and raised Christ from the dead is at work in your life.
So take a deep breath, gather your courage, and step forward. The waters may look deep and the current strong, but remember – you serve a God who specializes in making ways through impossible situations. Trust His leading, embrace the journey, and watch in awe as He unfolds the next chapter of your story.
Your promised land awaits. It's time to cross your Jordan.