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Transition, even when ordained by God, can be unsettling. Yet it is often during those seasons that the Lord calls us to remember who He is and trust Him. For me, transitioning from a wife to a widow was the most difficult change I have ever faced. This unexpected redirection exposed both my vulnerability and the foundation of my hope. I never imagined being left behind while my husband entered heaven. Loss and grief were never part of the future I envisioned, and I struggled to make sense of the unfamiliar road before me.

The numbness I felt and the deep valley stretching ahead of me left me searching for reassurance that God still had a purpose for my life. During those difficult days, the Lord brought to mind a verse I had memorized years earlier.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

Although these words were first spoken to God’s people during their exile, they reminded me of God’s faithful character—that He had not abandoned me and that He still held my future. I began looking for examples in the Bible of others who had faced unwanted change. The Lord directed the Hebrew people through many obstacles and transitions as they wandered and eventually settled in the land He provided. Centuries earlier, Joshua also faced an enormous transition as he prepared to lead God’s people into the Promised Land. The Lord reminded Joshua three times to be strong and courageous because He would be with him wherever he went.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9 (ESV)

Biblical courage never arises from within ourselves, but instead from a knowledge of God’s presence. For Joshua, this was not a call to be self-confident or just determined. It was a promise of God’s presence as he faced challenges and transitions for the Hebrew people. I saw that God reminded Joshua that Moses was His servant and called Joshua to remember Moses, not because he was great in himself, but because Moses’ life was a great example of faithfulness to the Lord.

Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised to Moses.
Joshua 1:3 (ESV)

Remembering God’s faithfulness gave Joshua confidence to move forward in obedience. This was one of the most challenging transitions in the history of the Hebrews so far. They were no longer with the leader who had shepherded them from Egypt, given them the Ten Commandments, or led them through the wilderness. They were no longer a wandering people, or captives of another nation. Now, they would have a completely different focus and purpose.

Joshua’s transition reminded me so much of my own. I no longer had my husband to rely on or to lead me. Suddenly I had a completely different focus and purpose. I was responsible for decisions I had never faced on my own. How similar my life seemed as I studied God’s word. I found another scripture that told me that remembering is an act of faith.

I will remember the deeds of the Lord.
Psalm 77:11 (ESV)

I may not always understand where the road ahead leads, but I do not walk it alone. The God who faithfully led His people through every transition continues to guide each step I take. Life in a fallen world is marked by unavoidable change and sometimes overwhelming challenges. In the season of widowhood, I am called to remember God’s faithfulness and trust His presence. Jesus and His presence in my life provide the confidence I need to move forward and be strong and courageous. Accepting the Lord’s plans with hope and trust as I transition and face change each day has become my prayer.

Lord,

We come to You with a desire to find Your plans and follow Your path for life going forward. Provide us with direction and courage as we face change and transition each day. Thank You for Your presence and provision each moment. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.