Transitioning into Leadership Roles

In Joshua chapter 1, verse 2, we see God gives a charge to Joshua saying, “Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.” Joshua had walked besides Moses for many years making him well prepared for leading the nation of Israel. When new leaders are fully trained, transitions go so smoothly.

A change of leadership in any organization, congregation or ministry is not always easy. But when you allow God to work through your transitioning, He will make everything go smoothly. Transitions can become frustrating to people when they don’t take the time to craft timelines for transitioning individuals into their roles in the church or organization. Too often, we don’t wait for God to work everything out and take matters into our own hands.

As leaders, we must know that the only one who is in charge is God Himself. There is much wisdom when you take the time to listen, observe and learn. If God has placed someone in your heart to take your place of leadership, begin praying for him or her. Start preparing them and train them and wait for God’s timing in placing them.

God’s transition has a bigger blueprint than what you and I will ever see. Allow Jesus to work in every heart that is part of the transitioning process. Jesus love His church more than we do and is concerned with the hearts and minds of His people. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).”

Serving the Lord with Gladness,

Deacon Terri McFarlane