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250115 CCC
NEXTing: PROCESS THEN PROGRESS
4-5 Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink
yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each
of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.(Galatians 6:4-5, MSG)
1. Process:
This refers to the intentional act of acknowledging, understanding, and working through
emotions, experiences, or challenges brought about by change. In the text process – can be the
period of retrospectives, inventory, preparation time…
Self-reflection: Taking the time to examine your thoughts and feelings about the
transition.
Acceptance: Allowing yourself to feel the highs and lows without suppressing or
avoiding them.
Healing and Adjusting: Recognizing that growth begins by facing what’s difficult,
whether it’s grief, fear, or uncertainty.
Without this step, unprocessed emotions or unresolved issues can hinder growth, leaving you
stuck in a cycle of confusion or resistance to change.
1b. Unpack the text, Galatians 6:4-5, MSG:
"Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given" = Process
This calls for deep introspection, a clear understanding of your unique identity, strengths,
purpose, and the tasks or opportunities entrusted to you by God.
Processing involves asking important questions:
o Who am I in this moment of transition?
o What has changed or how has it impacted me at this moment?
o What is and isn’t God asking me to steward at this point?
o What gifts, talents, and opportunities has God placed in my hands?
o What adjustments do I need to make internally (faith, mindset, emotions) before
moving forward?
By taking this step, you're not rushing into action but ensuring you're operating from a place of
alignment with your calling and purpose.
2. Progress:
Progress is measured, sustained forward movement in the right direction. Once you’ve
processed, progress becomes the natural next step. This is where you begin to move forward with
clarity, purpose, and a renewed sense of direction.
Actionable Steps: Setting new goals, rebuilding, or pursuing what’s next with
confidence.
Transformation: Embracing the growth that comes from the transition and allowing it to
shape a new version of yourself. Co-creating a new you with God.
Momentum: Having done the inner work, you're better equipped to move forward
without carrying unnecessary baggage.
2b. Unpack the text, Galatians 6:4-5, MSG:
"Sink yourself into that" = Progress
Once the process is complete, the passage encourages wholehearted commitment to your
work and calling. It’s about taking the insights and clarity gained during reflection and
pouring yourself into the task with focus and determination.
Progress here is not about perfection or comparison with others, but about faithfully
stewarding your unique role and opportunities with excellence.
3. Takeaways
How does this resonate with you? What relates to where you are?
In the NEXTing Strategy, this Scripture encourages you to:
Process: Carefully explore who you are, your calling, and the potential impact of the
shift on your family and relationships. Seek God’s guidance and examine your heart.
Progress: Once you've gained clarity, move forward boldly, focusing on giving your best
while avoiding the trap of comparison. Trust that by taking responsibility for your life
and calling, God will guide your steps.
In any transition—be it career changes, relationships, or spiritual growth—rushing
straight to "progress"; without processing can lead to burnout, unresolved pain, or a sense
of emptiness. Processing first ensures your growth is genuine and sustainable,
grounded in lessons learned from the change.
"Don't be impressed with yourself. Don't compare yourself with others"
These words guard you against unhealthy distractions that often come during transitions,
such as pride or insecurity from comparison.
Processing your motives and heart helps ensure your progress is humble, authentic, and
rooted in God’s purpose for you, not in seeking validation from others.
"Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your
own life."
This final instruction is about accountability. Progress means actively taking steps
forward and doing your personal best with what God has given you—creatively and
faithfully.
It’s a reminder that your journey is unique, and both the process and progress should
reflect God’s design for your life rather than being shaped by external pressures or
opinions.
Taking the time to evaluate the adjustments and weigh how these changes align with your
values and responsibilities will provide clarity and confidence in your next steps.
4. Prayer:
May God grant you clarity, wisdom, and peace as you navigate this important decision, transition of change. In Jesus’ name it is so!