Detours and Other Adventures: Life on the Road

You know how it goes. You're cruising along in life, and suddenly the road takes a sharp turn. Perhaps the road signs warn you. Perhaps it comes by surprise. In either case, life will never be the same.

Consider the roads your life has traveled. No doubt you're facing circumstances today that you hadn't expected to face five years ago, five months ago, or even five days ago, but here you are.

This month, as we continue to focus on growing closer to God, we've chosen to explore the lessons learned from life transitions. We asked a few friends to share how their travels down life's winding roads have drawn them closer to God. Whether or not you've encountered these same detours, it is our hope that you will be encouraged by their words to strengthen your trust in God when you face a bend in the road.

A grasp of God's sovereignty came to my rescue during the hardest transitions of my life. I've learned that in good times and bad, His grace covers every situation. God, and God alone, is in full control.

Ten Essentials for Your Time of Transition

1. Find a refuge in prayer
   Go boldly, go often-go just as you are. (Hebrews 4:16)

2. Ask God questions, listen for His answers
   God promises to reveal Himself when we diligently seek Him. (Jeremiah 29:13)
3. Be sensitive to your personal needs
   Commit to healthy eating, sleeping, and exercising habits. (1 Corinthians 3:16--17)
4. Stay connected
   It's easy to isolate yourself. Instead, reach out to others. (1 Corinthians 12:26)
5. Keep laughing
   Look for the humor in everyday situations. (Proverbs 15:13)
6. Be wise
   Align your expectations with reality. (Proverbs 2:2-5)
7. Conserve your energy
   Listen for God's heartbeat in the midst of your circumstances, instead of resisting change. (Ecclesiastes 3)
8. Be grateful
   Give thanks to God for His many blessings each day. (Colossians 3:15)
9. Follow an example
   Seek out godly people who have gained wisdom from this same transition. (Proverbs 24:6)
10. Return to Scripture
    Isaiah 43:1-3: Don't be afraid. Romans 8:38-39: Nothing will separate you from His love. Ephesians 2:10: He has prepared your path.