I am in the possession of a much loved, widely-traveled suitcase. With a floral tapestry print, it was the piece (with a few accessories, now long gone) I purchased with my high school graduation gift money. In case you’re wondering, this was a long, very long time ago! It has accompanied me to college, on my honeymoon, to the hospital where I had my babies, to England a few times and out of the country every time I’ve travelled. Recently, I noticed the wear and tear on the seams and the wheels, and I realized that my much-loved luggage has travelled this journey with me longer than most people have.

I think back to all the items it has held – travel necessities, a plethora of clothes, “just in case” items, and souvenirs coming home from fun travels. Comfort items, extra items, necessary items, fun items, and even items I didn’t want to have to pack – they’ve all found a home in its rectangular space. On a holiday to Jamaica it held different things than it did for a working weekend away from home. While some basic items have remained the same, most of what it has held has been vastly different, determined by my destination.

We all have experienced this in our lives, right? The way we pack is determined by our purpose, climate and needs for where we are going. Lately I’ve been mulling over this similarity in seasons of life. What serves well in one season might not be helpful at all in another one. In fact, having the wrong thing packed may even be detrimental to your journey, particularly if it keeps you from having the right item along! Sandals for a Jamaican beach may be preferred to dress shoes for a work trip, but knowing which to pack is essential. So how can you and I “pack” appropriately for the season that is on its way? This is particularly important as you experience a season change.

1. Know your season! Be aware of where you’ve journeyed, the season you are currently in (or just coming out of) as well as the place you’re headed. As referenced in an earlier blog post, you may not know the whole plan (usually this been the case for me, though how desperately I wish that weren’t so!). Ask the Lord to show you the next step and know that He is faithful. James 1:5 (NKJV) promises that “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
2. Ask God to show you what you need to “pack.” God is so very faithful to give wisdom, and He wants us to ask Him. Then we must be willing to listen. Have a journal and pen ready and be sensitive to His voice. You may be surprised by how, what and where He speaks to you. And then be obedient to do what He asks you to do.
3. Release, release, release! This is easier said than done, isn’t it? What if I need the sturdy hiking boots, but I’ve just bought the cutest sandals? As much as I love something – whether it’s a situation, an attitude, a gifting, a relationship, an assignment or position, I must release it if God asks me to do so. He alone knows what will serve you and I well in the next season, and no matter how hard it is, releasing for God’s glory will be for our good. “Prepare for what you’re praying for” is the phrase that kept coming to mind last year as I prayed about some desires I had – Godly, good ones, that I felt were from Him. There is a preparation piece we often forget as a season change is happening.  We must release to make room for the fresh thing God is bringing. Don’t ever clutch so tightly to the familiar that you miss the blessing of the new.

Finally, allow me to encourage you. Packing and unpacking are rarely fun; though I have a few friends who enjoy the process, I am not in that number. And to be perfectly transparent, I like it even less when it’s internal, life things. But I see the new land — with its adventures, battles, victories and faithfulness – and I want to be ready and well-prepared. How about you?

Do you have a favorite travel story?  I’d love to hear your insights or stories in the comments!