When God Orders Your Steps: Trusting His Leading in Church Transitions
Leaving a church can be one of the most difficult decisions a believer can make. It's not just about leaving a place of worship; it's about stepping away from relationships, support systems, and sometimes, comfort. But what happens when God calls you to something new?
"How do you know when it's time to move forward?"
I've recently walked through this journey, and God's leading has been evident in ways I couldn't have imagined. Here's a glimpse into my experience and the lessons I learned along the way.
The Divine Nudge: Stepping Out of Comfort
It all began when I came across a Christian networking event for business on TikTok. Now, I wasn't a business owner, but something in my spirit said, "Go." Even though fear and anxiety tried to hold me back, I pushed through and secured my ticket.
The night before the event, a vague business idea came to me, and so I created a LinkedIn profile—something I had never felt the need to do before. I even prepared some questions to ask during the event, even though I knew I probably wouldn't ask them. Still, I knew God had a plan, and this event was part of it.
A Dream That Set the Path
Before attending the event, I had a dream that would later be confirmed in the natural world. In the dream, I was in a high-rise building, and I noticed a door that opened automatically as I approached it. Beyond that door, there was a small bridge, leading me into a bright and sunny space. Ahead of me, I saw a tall building and a waiting elevator. As I looked down, I noticed a car park below me.
I didn't know what it all meant at the time, but as I walked past a multi-story car park on my way to the event, I immediately thought of my dream. The connection was too clear to ignore. I realised God was showing me that I was meant to be there.
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." - Psalm 119:105
A Divine Encounter: A Moment of Clarity
When I arrived at the event, I was greeted by a friendly woman who was surprised to see that I was attending alone. She introduced me to others who all happened to attend the same church. As we mingled, I met the global lead pastor (I had only just discovered who he was) of a church I'd never heard of. He was one of the speakers at the event, and I felt an unexpected pull to speak with him.
I didn't think anything of it at first, but as I approached him and began talking, something unexpected happened. Tears began to fall. The moment he spoke to me, I felt overwhelmed by the presence of God. I couldn't explain it, but I felt seen and heard in a way I hadn't in a long time.
In that brief moment, I believe I had an encounter with someone who was truly anointed by God. He was kind, humble, and his words resonated deeply within my spirit. When he asked me about my story, I felt the Holy Spirit nudge me toward sharing more, even though I could hardly speak.
"He encouraged me to take my story and turn it into teachings. Little did I know that this would lead me to the very next steps in my spiritual journey."
Aligning with God's Plan: A New Church, A New Season
After that powerful encounter, I prayed. I sought God's direction, and I felt His peace in my spirit. It became clear to me that He was leading me to join this new church and to step away from my previous spiritual home. It wasn't an easy decision, but I knew it was the right one.
God had made it clear that I needed to be in a place that would nurture my growth and align with His purposes for me. I had no doubt that this church, under the leadership of the pastor I met, was where I was meant to be.
The Transition: Leaving With Grace
Leaving my previous church was bittersweet, and the thought of saying goodbye wasn't easy. But God gave me the courage to leave well.
I knew I had to speak to my Pastor and tell him the truth: "I believe God is calling me elsewhere, to another church. This is my last service, but it's not goodbye forever. I will visit."
Even as I said these words, I felt peace in my heart. I left with joy and anticipation for the future, knowing that God was in control of every step.
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." - Ecclesiastes 3:1
Key Takeaways From My Journey
Trust God's Leading, Even When It's Uncomfortable
Sometimes, God will ask us to move in ways we don't understand. Trust Him. Even if it feels uncomfortable or uncertain, obedience to His voice will always lead to greater peace and purpose.Pay Attention to the Signs God Gives You
Dreams, visions, and divine connections are ways that God communicates with us. Don't ignore them. When God speaks through these channels, it's often to lead you toward something significant.Divine Encounters Can Shift Your Life
I truly believe that the encounter with the pastor was divinely orchestrated. Sometimes, the people God places in your life are destiny helpers—sent to guide you toward what's next.Leaving a Church Doesn't Have to Be Messy
When God calls you to move on from a church, leave with peace and grace. There's no need for drama or division. Honor the relationships you've built, and trust that God is leading you to something better.Be Open to New Opportunities
The pastor I met wasn't just someone I connected with spiritually, but he also worked in the tech space, which is where God has recently placed me. God often uses the connections He brings into our lives to align us with His bigger plan. Stay open to the opportunities that come your way.
Final Thought: Obedience Brings Peace
When you trust God's leading, even when it involves change or transition, He will always bring peace. I am now in a place where I feel spiritually nourished, and I'm excited about the path ahead.
Thank you, Pastor Adam, for allowing God to use you as a vessel. Your kindness and encouragement have meant more to me than you'll ever know. Through your obedience, God has helped me take the next steps in my faith, and I'm forever grateful.
Are you in a season of transition? Trust God's leading. Be open to the divine connections He places in your path, and remember that He will always guide you toward His perfect plan. When you follow His lead, peace will always follow.