How To Embrace New Seasons
If you’re anything like me, embracing new seasons can be challenging.
First, there’s the realization that things are changing… whether good or not so good, shifts can be a bit scary. The unknown is daunting!
Second, along with the shift comes the mindset switch. There’s something about familiarity that makes everyone comfortable with where they’re at. When the level we’re coasting on is no longer an option, we’re almost forced to move forward and adapt. “But how do I ______ if I’ve never done it before?” quickly becomes the question at the forefront of my mind.
Third, now comes mourning the perceived loss of what was. Even when we move on to a more fruitful season, there’s a sense of loss we all go through. The enemy is awfully good at trying to get us to hold on to baggage, trauma, and negativity ESPECIALLY when God is trying to elevate us to higher levels.
“So how do I accept and openly embrace a new season of life?” I’m glad you asked! I’ll break down my tips and take what you will. Nonetheless, just know, I am right there with you and the last thing I want is for you to get lost in the sauce. Get ready to elevate – I hope this speaks to wherever you’re at right now.
#1 – GOD HAS GOT YOU
Man, I literally had to and still have to say this out loud, “God is working everything together for my good. He’s a good good Father. He is intentional. He never forsakes me.” Through all of this, & when stepping into new seasons, please never forget how much God loves you. He sees everything – your hurt, your tears, your joy, your worries, your heart and He orchestrates everything together for the good of those who are called according to His purpose. No matter how dark things get, don’t doubt that spiritual truth.
#2 – YOU DON’T HAVE TO UNDERSTAND, JUST BE OBEDIENT
The amount of times I have tried to figure out what to do and control the unknown is too many to count. At the end of the day, God isn’t asking for that to be my role. All He wants is for us to be obedient. No longer do we have to strive or work to get everything right. Our hearts being His is what He’s after. Everything else is His to take care of.
#3 – NO MATTER WHAT, YOU ARE FORGIVEN
Part of our human condition is to feel guilt, shame, or condemnation for the things that have happened in our past. But guess what? Once we accept Christ and repent, we are forgiven! The things of our past have no bearing on our future. They may help to shape us and get us where we need to go because our God is magnificent at redemption. However, they cannot be held over our heads, the blood paid for that. While we’re on this subject, check your heart posture and forgive those around you. Don’t hold onto their mistakes or allow bitterness to take root in your heart.
#4 – WHERE YOU ARE IS WHERE YOU NEED TO BE
I had a revelation about where I’m at a couple of weeks ago and I was reminded of Lot. God delivered Lot and his family from Sodom & Gomorrah (a detestable city with all sorts of ungodly acts taking place). God told me clear as day, “You can’t keep looking back. Where I’m taking you requires you to look ahead.” He delivers us from dark, heavy situations, and looking back, rather, longing for those things can keep us in the bondage He delivered us from. Get anchored where you are. Leave Sodom & Gamorah behind. Don’t be like Lot’s wife whose disobedience caused her to be turned into a pillar of salt.
#5 – PRACTICE GRATITUDE
Sing love songs to the Lord. Say out loud the things you’re thankful for. If you don’t know where to start, praise Him for His everlasting and abounding grace, kindness, love, mercy, and patience. Thank Him for the miracle that is your life. For saving you. For redeeming you. If you find this exercise difficult, start small & work your way up. There are so many things to be grateful for. When we count up the miracles in everyday life, we quickly lose count. His goodness never ends.
#6 – STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR GODLY COMMUNITY
Lastly, I highly recommend staying connected to your godly community during the new seasons. It’s okay to admit you need help, to be vulnerable with those you trust, and to cry out to God with a heavy heart. The community He has surrounded you with is there for a purpose. He hears you, He sees you, and He will carry you through every situation in your life. Allow Holy Spirit to guide and minister to your heart. If you let Him in, you may be surprised by how much His love can transform and refine in any season.
All the love,
Hayden
