Main Thought
Transitions are a natural part of life. We often look forward to transitions with excitement as we imagine the possibilities that await us. Yet many transitions fail to deliver their full potential. One of the biggest reasons for this is that we are unprepared for these new seasons or opportunities. God wants us to prepare for transitions by being transformed. In Deuteronomy, we see how the Israelites were encouraged to transform before crossing over (or transitioning) into the Promised Land. Their transformation included reflection. When we reflect on things that have happened or what God has done in our lives, then we can adjust accordingly. Transformation also includes listening to God and responding in faith. Love motivates us to listen to God. God loved us with His best. We should love Him with our best too. If we choose to be transformed by doing these three things, then we are choosing life. That’s how we can prepare to experience God’s best in each new season.
Main Passages
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
- 2 Corinthians 5:21
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
- Deuteronomy 6:4-5
I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life and length of days...”
- Deuteronomy 30:19-20
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
Reflect on your life in 2022. Try to describe it (or at least some major events) with a theme, word, or phrase.
Based on your answer to the previous question, how might God have wanted to transform you? Is there anything you can do in response to listen to God and obey Him in love?