The Bible is replete with the stories of individuals who were called upon to leave their comfort zones. All these movements required a very spiritual type of courage and resolve. Much like the way a moving company would facilitate a move for an individual today, biblical individuals found encouragement and rest in the process of moving to significant new locations. Much like most people, aspects of life such as movement and change are not easy. However, as the Bible demonstrates, through faith, one received adequate assistance by looking for help when in need.
Abraham's Leap of Faith:
Having caught the attention of his audience, he continues with the explanation in Genesis 12:1 where it is demonstrated how God appeared to Abraham himself and told him to gather his belongings and move to an entirely different place. There are many meanings, positions and shades and each has its deep contextual meaning. My favorite perspective is how God explicitly instructed Abraham to leave the only place he called home: "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you." This statement single handily captures the hopes of an uncertain future. The phrase "the land I will show you" depicts the reward, whereas the other half of the phrase depicts the promise God had for Abraham.
Jacob's Life-Changing Return:
Jacob's journey back to Canaan was more of a reconciliation than a physical move. After years of being away, he was about to meet his brother Esau and was extremely anxious because of what had gone down between them. On the eve of the gathering, he wrestled with an invisible entity and, afterwards, was bruised but exhilarated. He was named Israel (Genesis 32:22-32). History repeats that with every mountainous ascent of a barren valley, the yoke of the past needs to be carried on one's shoulder and change ushered in-a fact time and again attested by the will to persevere.
The Exodus: An Untold Story of Faith:
History has recalled one of the monumental movements in the Bible: the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. Moses led them out of slavery, hoping to gain freedom in the wilderness but faced resistance. In a quick flash, challenges came up; they quickly learned, if not followed with trust in God for additional wisdom, warm reflections are of no use. Their narration would remain inspirational for all those undergoing immense changes; reaffirming that there will be greater causes in times of failure.
Finding Strength in Transitions:
Whether by design or by surprise, transitions disrupt our sense of security. The exodus stories of Abraham, Jacob, and the Israelites remind us that to move forward-both literally and figuratively-often meant stepping onto the slippery terrain of uncertainty. And in any area of change today, a professor might greet you: the need for God's assurance is ever alive.