Navigating through Transition

“I don’t know how I am going to survive,” I said to Calvin. It was 3:30 am and not the first time we were woken up with a sick baby that night. It was also our 3rd night in a row with much disturbed sleep.


I lost track of how many times I had said that over the past 2 weeks here in Kona. I think I thought once we got here, we would be okay. Because even the getting here was a battle—changed flights due to Hurricane Irma; fears and doubts creeping in, anxious thoughts frequenting my mind.

But oh my goodness I feel like we have been in a small battle since arriving. From car troubles, to heat rash, sickness, and Ivory falling out of a baby swing—we have been hit. Coming to Kona was never in our plan. It was a shock when we felt the Lord drawing us back here.

We have transitioned more times than I can count over the last 10 years but this one has by far been the hardest…emotionally, physically, spiritually.

I like that Kris Vallotton says if it’s not good then it must not be the end. Because God works out all things for the good of those that love Him. (Rom 8:28) I love how the message says it, “That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.” So we are definitely not at the end. We’re in the middle. Or maybe even the beginning. And that’s a hard place to be.

So many unanswered questions, unexpected things happening, rhythms trying to be worked out. How does one get through this kind of time? How do I not only survive but even thrive?

One day at a time. Really. That’s what I have found. And a whole lot of trust.

Photo by Calvin Hanson
Photo by Calvin Hanson

Choosing to trust God even when I don’t have the answers and when I don’t see the end. Choosing to be okay with where I am at even though it’s not where I want to be. Choosing to say yes to the friendships put in our path. Choosing to do my best to focus on the good and be positive even though negativity wants to creep into every turn.

I really am learning that Jesus is the only sure foundation and that all other ground really is sinking sand. I saw this flower bud on the ground the other day and I tried to open it and it just fell apart. I started to think how we have to stay attached to the tree to open, to flourish (John 15) and also how in His timing He will cause us to bloom.

It’s nothing we can force on our own but we really have to allow Him to open us. So that is my prayer and my hope. That in the midst of this transition He would allow me to bloom, in His time.

Are you in a transition? Let us know how it’s going for you and what you are learning below or on our facebook page.

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7 Responses

  1. This word from Peter to the saints in far off places caught my attention. May the Spirit assure and encourage you in your far off place and transition, with the same truth. Sending much love to you!
    “My purpose in writing is to encourage you and assure you that what you are experiencing is truly part of God’s grace for you. Stand firm in this grace.” (‭1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭12‬ NLT).

  2. Coming to England was an act of obedience on my part, too, and my transition into life here was also a painful, eventful, drawn out one, but this has been the place where I’ve grown the most, not only as a person but also in my relationship with God and my faith and trust in him. I am still struggling, but this only means that I am in a place I can’t help but depend on God for even the most basic things. It’s not an easy place to be, but there is blessing and growth in being reminded of my dependence on God – it’s easy to get independent if things are going your way 🙂 I guess what I’m saying is that there is true blessing in suffering through a season of obedience. I can safely say that being in England has been both the hardest and the most wonderful time in God’s presence for me! Hang in there and be expectant of what God is doing and will continue to do in your lives throughout your time there – I’m sure you will be amazed as you look back on it!

    Much love from England – we miss you guys over here! <3

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