I've been thinking a lot lately about how a person can "KNOW WHEN IT'S TIME TO GO." Life is one gigantic state of transition. We move from one place to live to the next, one school to the next, one occupation to the next, one stage of life to the next, and in between there are dozens of tiny adjustments and readjustments along the way.

If that's true, then how do we know if it's time to "FORCE" a transition? In other words... how do we know when it's time to go? To make this more simple, I'm applying this post specifically to leaving a job, but it's principles apply to any life transitions.

1. When in doubt... STAY PUT.

I think God is more interested in HOW we do what we do than what we do. In other words, God doesn't care if a person is a plumber, a businessperson, or a pastor. What He cares about is if that person is a HARD-WORKING plumber, an HONEST businessperson, or a FAITHFUL pastor.

Colossians 3:23-24 says "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." (Colossians 3:23-24).

So if God is stirring something up inside of you but you're still hashing through your thoughts and feelings... STAY PUT. A bad job is still better than no job. If you're in a tough spot, work hard as if Jesus himself was your boss and start dreaming about a better future.

2. Weigh the options.

Every profession/calling/leading will have elements you will not enjoy. Some parts of the grass might be greener on the other side, but there will always be tasks that are not particularly enjoyable. When looking for a new job, more money often translates to more stress. Whenever making a "jump," weigh all the options on the table BEFORE making the leap.

3. Wise counsel.

The word "counsel" appears over 90 times in the Bible. Proverbs 15:22 says "Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed." Good counsel includes counsel from the Lord (in prayer/Bible reading/however you spend time with him), AND counsel from a few trustworthy people. The "trinity" of wise counsel is you, God, and people who are for you.

SIDEBAR: while you are in the "counsel" phase of the decision, KEEP IT TO YOURSELF. It is really important not to spill the beans to the wrong person. It causes problems you won't want.

4. Don't over-spiritualize the decision.

I am a Christian, and I want God to drive ALL my decisions. Having said that, I have seen people waiting for "signs" from the Lord and MISS the truth. The right counsel in your life will tell you when you are out of line, and they will also tell you when it's time to make a decision. Pray about it, talk about it, but don't over-spiritualize the decision. God gave you a brain and free will. USE THEM!

5. Create a vision for "The New You."

The worst reason to leave a job is because someone isn't "happy" at the current one. Being "unhappy" at a job probably says more about your heart than it does your job. The Bible talks about being content wherever God puts us (2 Cor. 12:10; Phil. 4:11; 1 Tim. 6:8; Heb. 13:5).

Having said that, there are still valid reasons to leave. Instead of leaving because of unhappiness, create with a vision for "The New You." "The New You" is honest about your strengths, weaknesses, and has a clear mental picture of what life should be like. Sometimes, compromises must be made to achieve "The New You." That's OK! Less money might mean more freedom. If that's part of the vision for "The New You," celebrate that. Get a clear picture of what you are looking for so that you know how to prioritize the options. The goal is to find something where you can operate in your strengths as much as possible.

BOTTOM LINE: A new job is not just a new job, it should include a new vision for your life. Behind it, underneath it, and in front of it is a sense that God is creating a new "you" already. When it comes, you'll be ready! LEAD WITH VISION, and God will take you great places.

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