Throughout biblical history God’s people have gone through several different times of transition. Whether it involved being removed from the Garden of Eden because of their sins (Gen. 3:22- 24) or the departure from Egypt on the way to the promised land (Exod. 14); there have been times when God’s people were on the move.
Each time we read about times of transition and change for God’s people we read about opportunities for growth and also challenges to overcome. Under the leadership of Joshua, the people had to trust God as they marched around Jericho and believe the walls would fall like God promised they would (Josh. 6). They had to deal with sin in their midst as Achan took some of the forbidden spoils of the land for himself (Josh. 7). When David ascended to the throne to begin his reign as Israel’s greatest king it was a time of rejoicing, celebration, and triumph. Yet, as they were bringing the ark of God home Uzzah disregarded what God commanded about who was to touch the ark and it cost him his life (2 Sam. 6:1-11). Sometime later, David and Israel regrouped and retrieved the ark of God according to God’s command, they were blessed, and David rejoiced greatly (2 Sam. 6:12-15).
When we fast forward to the New Testament we read of exciting times as people are hearing the gospel, believing it, and surrendering their lives to Jesus in obedience (Acts 2:1-47). At one point the church in Jerusalem had more than 5,000 members (Acts 4:4). Still, in all their success they were not without challenges related to church discipline (Acts 5:1-14) and benevolence with needy widows (Acts 6:1-7). These were all sensitive times with amazing challenges, but also moments filled with immense potential for good as God’s power and might shined through. As we prepare to transition soon from the Lehman Ave church of Christ to Cumberland Trace it is helpful for us to study these time periods of transition and keep a few things in mind as we go forward.
- It’s always right to follow God’s pattern for worship, salvation, and service. Whenever we deviate we are on the brink of ruin (Acts 2:36-42).
- Anything great that happens in God’s kingdom happens because our God is great, not because we are great (Psa. 147:5). –
- The Devil loves to disturb good works, but we do not have to allow him to destroy or distract us (Eph. 4:27; James 4:7-8)
- Patience is priceless and haste is hazardous. Whenever God’s people get into a hurry, we usually get into a mess (Psa. 37:7; 1 Cor. 13:4)
- God always has great things in store for his people, get your hopes up, and remain optimistic (Job 37:5; Eph. 3:20)!
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