Transition

Life’s journey sometimes prepares us for a transition that is on the horizon and at other times they come as a complete surprise. In ministry the transitions occur similar to our individual lives; they can be expected or unexpected transitions. In my journey I have learned many people and churches are ill prepared for the unexpected transitions. Churches that face an unexpected transition in leadership or a transition in ministry direction in executing the Great Commission and Great Commandment respond with a plethora of opinions, statements and often conflict.

In recent months I have discussed transition with individuals and churches walking through changes that were either expected or unexpected. They have been great people and churches that have found a shift in their journey by walking through leadership uncertainty resulting in a transition taking place.  I have concluded the following issues one might need to address:

1. Vibrant walk with the Lord: I would hope this would be true everyday of the Christian life but when you face transition it is vital to be attentive to walking with the Lord. You may be surprised at the growth you can experience in your relationship with Christ and as a church when people are seeking together the will of the Father.
2. Transparency: People need to know what the road map going forward looks like. Often times as leaders we have a plan but do not articulate the plan well.
3. Communication: Not only do we need to open and honest about the transition but we need to communicate the action steps to navigate through the transition.
4. Discernment: In transition one can make decisions without the normal lens in place through which other decisions are filtered. During transition discernment is crucial for navigating the change with success.
5. Wisdom: When a transition becomes evident one should seek wise council from God’s Word and experienced wise leaders.

This list is not exhaustive but a great starting place for walking through a transition in your journey as Christ follower, minister and leader of an organization.

A few resources you may desire to consult:

The Painful Side of Leadership by Jeff Iorg

Innovation’s Dirty Little Secret by Larry Osborne

Being Leaders by Aubrey Malphurs

Tribal Church by Steve Stroope