Transition is just another word for change. Transitions can be hard to navigate, often bringing unexpected challenges and emotions we are not always prepared to face.

No matter how familiar the life of Moses may be, there are always new lessons to be learned. In her book, “Your New Now: Finding Strength and Wisdom When You Feel Stuck Where You Are”, Nicki Koziarz takes a fresh look at the life of Moses.

We are encouraged to look at Moses’ life through the perspective of transition, specifically the transitions he experienced over the course of his life. Moses experienced four seasons of transition:

• Development. This season begins with a clearing out of the old so that new growth can occur.
• Separation. This is where we feel apart from what we always knew or were comfortable with. It can be a separation from something (job, church, state) or someone (spouse, children, friends).
• Cultivation. In this season, which can be exciting, opportunities to try or learn something new enters our lives. This can be a new job, setting a goal, or taking on a new aspect of ministry.
• Finished. This is the difference between quitting and ending well. It’s is acknowledging your job, or your role, is completed.

Here are my takeaways from each season of transition:

Development:

“Development with God means we are committed to our growth process with Him. Even when it feels senseless, harsh, mean, or unfair (emphasis on feels). This space in our lives is crucial for our faith.” (page 39)

“If you are not willing to develop, you won’t develop. But if you are willing to develop, you will become wiser, stronger, and able to go from here to there with confidence.” (page 40)

Separation:

“When God allows us to enter the transition place of separation, it’s not because He’s punishing us. Instead, He’s proving to us that He is what we need. Everything and everyone else will fail us at some point. He won’t.” (page 75)

“What often looks like isolation to us can really be an invitation into a deeper place with Him.” (page 103)

Cultivation:

“Cultivation is related to the preparation of land for the raising of crops. Cultivate is a very intentional word.” (page 114)

“There is a difference between having intentions and being intentional.” (page 114)

“Being intentional means we’re going to do our best to make space, develop habits, research, or do whatever we need  to do so that what needs to happen, happens.” (page 114)

Finished:

“Becoming surrendered to a season that is finished doesn’t mean we stop being available to be used by God.” (page 166)

“You have a purpose beyond anything you can see today. Trust the process.” (page 194)

The book is both thought provoking and enjoyable. It is an easy read with a powerful message. Each section ends with a “mini Bible study” making this a book effective for both groups and individual use. There is something to be gleaned for everyone as we all will find ourselves in one season or the other.

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*** I received this book from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions I have expressed are my own. While I have included a link for the book, it will direct you to the author’s page and is not an affiliate link for which I receive compensation.