“Transitioning” is an apt description of my journey through 2025 to date.
I began the year with many questions in prayer as to how life might have to change with my husband’s June retirement. More importantly, seeking to discern what God was saying to us individually and as a couple in this new season.
I am so grateful for His responses that have gently but clearly steered us – sometimes unexpectedly, and in one case, “give it another year”.
This isn’t the place to unpack the detail but I do feel prompted to share a familiar idom that sums up the answers in a few words, and which I trust may help, guide and encourage some of you too:
“Bloom where you’re planted” St Francis de Sales
Esther was in her teens or early twenties when she was taken from her home to be groomed for the king’s bedchamber. It’s a gritty reality and yet a hard place in which she flourished as she focused on God’s nature, presence and purposes.
And so, our place of dwelling this month invites us to look at our circumstances. Whether they are confusing, painful, tough, mundane, insecure, routine, or indeed, days of peaceful contentment, let’s ask God to show us, remind us or guide us into:
– How can I live well for You in this situation? What opportunities does it offer?
– Is there anything I am to take up or put down in this season?
– What have You promised me in Your Word and through Your character to comfort, sustain and help me through these difficulties?
– What is the right thing to say and do, even when it’s hard?
– What gifts and resources have You given me, spiritually and practically, to enable me to flourish where You have planted me at this time? And am I using them?