The very word TRANSITION brings about many different emotions to many different people. For some it ushers in excitement, adventure, and transformation toward a new goal. For others it ushers in fear, anxiety, leaping into the unknown, loss of what was. But one thing that cannot be denied…
TRANSITION BRINGS CHANGE!!
It has been said, “Embrace change or you will cease to grow.” By my experience, I believe this 100%. I’ll be the first to admit I DON’T LIKE CHANGE! I love routine. I love order. I love structure. Change is hard! As with a lot of people I’ve met, I have married my counterpart. HE LOVES CHANGE! Many years ago I inquired, “As much as you love change, should I be worried about you changing your wife?” Laughingly he responded, “No, as long as I can keep a constant wife, I can just change everything else.” Hmmm… Isn’t it funny how frequently God puts opposites together?! I think its his way of refining and growing us.
Regardless of our different approaches to change, Bobby and I both grew exponentially through our time in Guatemala. What did we find in this time of change? We found out a temporary place can be called a home. We found out God provides family in those called to serve alonside you. We found you can live on less than you think. We found out God will ask you to do crazy things you never thought you could to prove he is trustworthy. We found God has bigger plans than our finite minds can grasp. We found that our growth means daily surrendering of expectations on others and letting God be God. We found that you can’t look in the rear view mirror too long or you will crash. And probably one of the biggest things is that…
OBEDIENCE TO THE LORD PRODUCES FRUIT
And many times you will only have enough faith for the step you’re on
…but that’s enough! Keep walking
I cannot take credit for this advice for times of transition, but I would like to pass it on.
*Recognize that transitions are hard because they can shake your sense of identity.
While it was Bobby’s giftings and talents that were needed to create financial stability for this base, I had to realize that my support role was also an extremely important one.
*Being in transition is a wonderful opportunity for growth
You’ve heard of “growing pains”? They’re real! Pruning is often a part of this process. But it’s in those times that we extend past our limitations and depend on God more.
*Remind yourself why you chose to make the change
Our “why” is important for the longevity of the commitment. But also, its just remembering that YOU CHOSE the change. You trusted God enough to take the step in the first place.
*Recall other times in your life when you’ve successfully dealt with transitions.
God’s track record of being faithful should stand up against any doubt satan can throw at you. You’ve been developing a tool chest with every challenge in life. Use the right tool for the right time.
*When you’re in transition, it’s easy to become overly focused on yourself.
Depending on your personality, this is more challenging for some than others. While it is important to recognize struggles and seek healing for wounds, the focus needs to stay balanced. Keep the Love God – Love Others banner waving victoriously in your life and the self-focus will not rule your life. It will change your perspective.
*Part of what helps you feel secure in transition is having a support system.
We were so blessed to have a team that spoke life into us, rejoiced with us, and supported our role in their lives. They didn’t just see us as part of a ministry team, but as a couple trying to live out our calling before them.
SO NOW…we transition to Adventures in Missions headquarters in Gainesville, GA, to oversee base development in other countries. We pray that God continues to use our gifts and talents beyond our human capacity to provide structure and support for the furtherance of His Kingdom. We have the same basic needs as others. New home. New community. New church family. Grace in this new season of life together. It warms our hearts to know you are praying for us and encouraging us as we continue to give our YES and follow in obedience this calling in our lives. Please feel free to message us anytime and catch up personally.
Becky Corder
