Episode 110: Relying on God Through Transition

As worship leaders and ministry workers, we know that life can be unpredictable and full of transitions. In this episode of the Overflow Worship Podcast, I sat down with Shelly Johnson, a worship leader and songwriter, to discuss her journey through seasons of change and how God has been faithful through every chapter. We hope this conversation encourages you, whether you're in a season of transition or simply seeking to find joy in the midst of uncertainty.

Building Foundations Through Relationships in Ministry

Shelly Johnson, who has been involved in ministry for over a decade, shared her current role in launching a new church. The unique aspect of starting something from the ground up is that relationships become foundational.

"When you're building something from scratch, it's all about the relationships with the team because you can't do anything without people. The church is the people."

This insight is critical for any worship leader or ministry team member. It’s easy to get caught up in the logistics of leading worship or managing the technical details of a service, but building authentic relationships with your team and congregation is key to a healthy ministry.

As Shelly described her experience with the "Launch Team"—a group of 20-25 people committed to helping the new church plant grow—she emphasized the importance of community and the powerful role that trust and shared visionplay in creating a strong foundation for any ministry.

Navigating Unexpected Transitions in Life and Ministry

Shelly’s personal journey has also been marked by significant transitions. In 2022, her husband Jack was laid off after 22 years at T-Mobile. At the same time, Shelly transitioned out of a worship pastor role after just six months due to unforeseen challenges. These sudden changes forced her and her family into a season of waiting, trusting, and rediscovering God's purpose for their lives.

"Transitions are usually imposed upon us, and many times it's not when we expect or want it."

Shelly shared how difficult it was to process these unexpected changes. Letting go of control was a significant lesson for her in this season. As she walked through moments of uncertainty, Shelly realized that God was breaking her reliance on her plans and calling her to trust Him fully. This message resonates with many of us who struggle with the tension between planning and surrender.

If you are in a similar season of transition, Shelly’s story offers hope and a reminder that God never wastes any experience. He is intentional, even in the waiting.

Finding Purpose in the Wilderness

Another key theme of Shelly’s testimony was learning how God uses wilderness seasons to prepare us for what’s ahead. Shelly’s time as an interim worship leader at a church that met in a school auditorium was a seemingly random chapter in her journey, but God used it to prepare her for her new role in launching a church plant that also meets in a school.

"God doesn’t waste anything. Even the seasons where we feel lost... it's actually a preparation season."

For worship leaders and those serving in ministry, this is a powerful reminder that every season, no matter how uncertain, is part of God’s preparation for what’s coming next. Even in moments when we feel lost or disoriented, God is working behind the scenes, equipping us for the next chapter.

Trusting God and Letting Go of Control

One of the biggest lessons Shelly shared was the process of learning to let go of control. As planners and organizers, many of us feel more at peace when things are predictable. But Shelly discovered that control is an illusion, and true peace comes from trusting in God’s sovereignty.

"Control is an illusion. The only thing we can truly rely on is Jesus."

In a world where change is inevitable, Shelly’s words remind us to hold things loosely and trust that God’s plans are greater than our own. Whether in our personal lives or ministry roles, God is always at work, even when we can’t see the full picture.

Encouragement for Worship Leaders in Transition

To wrap up the conversation, Shelly offered encouragement to those who might be in the midst of a transition—whether it’s in ministry, personal life, or both. She reminded us that God never wastes a season. Even in the wilderness, God is shaping our hearts, preparing us for the next thing He has for us.

If you’re walking through a season of change or uncertainty, be encouraged by Shelly’s story and the truth that God is intentional in every detail of your journey. Lean into the relationships around you, trust in God’s timing, and rest in His faithfulness.

Trust the Process and Embrace Every Chapter

Transition is never easy, but through Shelly’s testimony, we see how God uses every step to prepare us for what's next. Whether you’re launching a new ministry or navigating an unexpected season of life, trust that God is with you every step of the way. His plans are greater than we could imagine, and He is faithful to guide us through each chapter.

Stay Connected and Join Our Community

If you’re a worship leader or ministry leader looking for support and encouragement, don’t forget to join our Overflow Worship Email Family. You’ll receive free resources, tips, and devotionals to help you grow in your leadership role. Sign up today at overflowworship.com/healthyteam and start building a healthier team!

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