A Season of Change
After 15+ years, I felt a gentle nudge that turned into a burning desire to do more, to serve at a higher level. This nudge led me to leave a remarkably successful career and head into the unknown. This was not an easy decision. I loved my job, and I loved the teams I worked alongside. I was also blessed beyond measure by the numerous students and families (many of which I am still in touch with) that I met in my vocation. However, I could not ignore the tug from the Holy Spirit that it was time to exit.
So, here I am years later, sheltered in place, juggling life all while attempting to reflect upon and ponder where God is leading me.
Transitioning from a full-time career woman to an entrepreneur finding her way can be quite bewildering. One day I’m leading a fantastic team of amazing leaders, and the next day I am the team! Not to mention, I am a person who thrives on structure and processes. In fact, I love processes!
This girl is slowly learning how to adapt to a less structured (and stressful) lifestyle. I have my good days and my not so good days. But, through prayer and meditation, I continuously seek wisdom and insight. I mean, how can I encourage and equip women in their season of transition when I too am struggling?
That’s when I grasped that I could help other women because I, too, have experienced the struggle. I’ve experienced seasons of doubt, fear, loneliness, confusion, and loss. My friend, we are always in a season of change whether we are a new mom, an empty-nester, new job, newly single, newly married whatever the case may be. We will always have seasons of change (and I’m quite certain that’s why we place the word new before the noun).
There will always be shifts in our journey, and it’s our choice to either embrace the pivot or resist the move. I choose to embrace the pivot!
How? We are called to place our trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding; and in all our ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct our paths, Proverbs 3:5-6.
That’s some encouragement! Why spend life frustrated and fearful when we can trust in God, acknowledge Him, and He will direct our paths.
So, let’s take a look at a few ways we can fortify our resolve and strengthen our faith walk. Are you following?
Letting Go
What are you holding onto? Dig deep when you ask yourself this question. We all tend to hold on to things in our season of change, things that make our journey heavy. What is it that you keep packing in your backpack or suitcase to take with you each day? What are you refusing to let go of? Are you hanging onto unforgiveness or brokenness? Is it a dream that has fallen to the wayside on your journey? Whatever it is, my friend, give it to God. Unpack those thoughts that are not serving you and lay them down at the feet of Jesus. Then, walk away. Do not look back. Keep your eyes on God.
“See, I am sending an angel before you to protect you on your journey and lead you safely to the place I have prepared for you.” Exodus 23:20 (NLT)
As you read these words, are you believing in the power of the Word of God? If you are struggling to believe that you will be protected on your journey, I encourage you to read the book of Exodus. You will discover God is faithful. God is in control. God is sovereign. God delivers. God provides. God equips His people to do everything He calls them to do. Have faith, my friend.
Allow God to lead you to the place He has prepared for you. Place your trust in Him. Let go and let God.
A Change of Heart
Have you ever experienced a change of heart? In my journey, there have been many times I felt the need to strive and push. I allowed my independent flesh to override my judgment, which caused me to push and shove my way through life, making life so much more complicated than need be. It took many years for this rebellious female to stand down, and it was not easy letting go.
I carried fear and doubt with me for so long I was not aware of the weight holding me down. I had become comfortable with the baggage. Whether my heavy load was due to pride or brokenness is not relevant. What matters is that God changed my heart. I finally recognized that unless I changed my focus from earthly desires – titles, material things – and directed my attention to God, He would be unable to work in my life. I had to make the choice to align myself, my life, with God and not the things of this world. And that’s when renewal begins, the pivot from me-centered to God-centered.
When we trust and believe that our identity is in Christ and not the things of this world, transformation occurs. And, it begins with a heart change. I know that I have not made it this far through my own strength. I’ve made it because of God’s grace. His strength brought me through and continues to sustain me as I forget the past and look forward to what lies ahead.
“He answered me, ‘I am all you need. I give you My loving-favor. My power works best in weak people.’ I am happy to be weak and have trouble, so I can have Christ’s power in me. I receive joy when I am weak. I receive joy when people talk against me and make it hard for me and try to hurt me and make trouble for me. I receive joy when all these things come to me because of Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-11 (NLV)
You see, when I am weak, He is strong. He is all we ever need on our journey. Why? Because He will provide us what we need at just the right time regardless of our season.
Focused on the Goal
How about you? Are you still fighting for control and the desires of the world, or have you decided to stand down? Are you letting go or hanging on?
“I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.” Philippians 3:12-14 (MSG)
It is my prayer you will place your trust in God in this season of transition. And, if you are in need of a spiritual guide or mentor, I’m here for you. You are not alone on your journey. I’m cheering you on, and I’d be thrilled if you would cheer me on as well!
Keep on shining!
If you’re ready to tackle your next step, I encourage you to schedule a FREE discovery call HERE (yes, it’s that simple, and there’s no commitment with the discovery call). We can chat over the phone or via an online conference. Or, you can sign up for one of my coaching programs at RobinRevisPyke.com. I hope to hear from you soon!
