Latest Devotion
Transitions
By: Kelly Russell
Tuesday, January 13, 2026
I am making everything new! Revelation 21:5
At the start of every new year, there’s a lot of talk about making changes. All too often, reality overrides intentions, and people remain stuck in their habits. The first step toward change is desire, quickly followed by discipline. Together, these form a mentality that shapes a future that is different than the past.
So, where do we begin? From our first cry to our last breath, life is full of transitions. Who we are as children influences who we become as an adult. Every interaction, experience, and decision develops our character and perspective. That foundation is the springboard for each step in our journey.
A good starting place for change is personal reflection:
Do I like the direction my life is moving in?
Which areas do I see repeated struggles?
What do other people notice about my lifestyle?
Questions like these matter because real change begins with awareness. Scripture reminds us that transformation is the work of God’s hand, rather than our self-will. By its very definition, transition is a gradual process, not an immediate shift. There are no shortcuts to long-term change. Though we don’t welcome the painful moments, they are the seeds that initiate the deepest growth. Our heavenly Father invites us to surrender our struggles and setbacks to Him, trusting that He will complete the work He began in us. Every difficult or uncertain season has a purpose. Transitions aren’t just about leaving something behind; they are about stepping into the fullness and fruitfulness of God.
While change can be good, trying to recreate who God made us to be calls for a mindset realignment. Yes, we are flawed. We are needy. We sometimes drift off the narrow path rather than dwell securely in God’s presence. Our intimacy with God helps us reflect on our identity in Christ—we are faultless and forgiven.
Be encouraged, when you…
Take steps in the wrong direction, let the Shepherd lead you back to paths of righteousness.
When You Allow thoughts to take you captive, let the Scriptures renew your mind.
Try to please everyone, let the Savior remind you that He is your audience of one.
Strive for perfection, let the Spirit overflow through your gifts and watch Him work.
There are lots of changes we can make on our own. But what if they keep us from God’s will for our lives? I encourage you to make space for transitions. May this be your declaration: “Here I am, Lord. Have your way. Do in my life whatever glorifies you most.”
Read: Psalm 119: 114, Isaiah 43:18-19, Mark 8:36, Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Philippians 1:6