But, summer is winding down. For some of us, that means looking forward to the newest trends in this year’s fall fashion. For others of us, that means getting back into the busy cycle of work. For others still, that means returning to the hectic schedule of school, and extracurricular activities.

Whatever it means to you, the end of summer marks a transition from one season to another, not just environmentally but also personally. As we look forward to that transition ahead, I want to encourage you to pause. Take a moment to reflect on these past few months, then spend some time alone to honestly self-evaluate.

Take note of how you’re doing emotionally. Maybe for you, these past few months have been intoxicatingly blissful. Or, maybe you recognize that you’ve been riding an emotional rollercoaster since May. Also, consider how you’re doing spiritually. It could be that this summer you exercised more faith than you ever thought possible. On the other hand, you might have plateaued, with no decrease but also no growth in your relationship with Christ. Next, consider your other relationships. Do you feel like you’re in a good place relationally? Or, do you sense some tension between yourself and another? There are no right or wrong, good or bad answers to these questions. You’re just taking a moment to be hyper-aware of where you are right now.

In other words, you’re channeling your inner King David, who when writing a large portion of the Psalms, did the same exact thing. He got extremely honest, both with God and with himself, in what I believe must have been an incredibly cathartic experience, writing those powerful books of the Bible.

So, like David, write down what you notice about yourself. Maybe even share them with a mentor or a trusted friend. Then, without judgment or shame, simply make peace with where you are.  Celebrate the areas that you’re proud of, have grace for the areas that disappoint, and ask God to show up in the spaces that need to change.

It’s so important that we take the time to do this because so often we transition into new stages of life only thinking about what’s coming next. Don’t get me wrong. Setting goals and strategizing plans to get to where we want to be is important. We just don’t want to rush into the future without taking time to process the present.

My prayer for you is that God will expose you to yourself so that you can transition into this next season fully aware of where you are holistically, excited about how you will grow, and expectant of God to move in incredible ways, because His plan for what’s next is greater than any of us could ever imagine!

By: Tyla Hairston

Communications Intern