Encouragement for Men in Transitional Spaces: A Father’s Day Devotional

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters - whenever you face trials of many kinds - because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” - James 1: 2-4

Have you ever found yourself unsure of your direction in life or questioning your identity and purpose? It’s okay, we’ve all been there. Transitional periods in life can leave us feeling confused and stuck. But did you know that this state of uncertainty has a name? It’s called “liminality,” and it refers to the space between your old self and the person you’re becoming.

Liminality, or liminal space, is a term used to describe the state of being “in-between” two different points in time or space. It’s a transitional period where you have left one stage behind but haven’t fully arrived at the next one. This can be a physical, emotional, or mental state that often comes with feelings of uncertainty, disorientation, and discomfort. However, it can also be a place of growth and transformation as you navigate through this “limbo” period toward a new understanding of yourself and your surroundings.

In fact, embracing the discomfort and uncertainty of liminal space can lead to greater resilience, faith, and personal development and that may be especially true for the men in our society.

To all the husbands, fathers, and men out there who might be feeling lost and confused during transitional seasons of life, know that you are not alone. We all go through periods where we question our identity and purpose. These moments can leave us feeling uncertain and stuck, but they also have a purpose.

Men face distinct challenges in every phase of life, from navigating career changes to providing for their families, raising children, and dealing with relationship struggles. The burden of being a strong leader and provider can be overwhelming at times, leaving men feeling isolated and unsure of how to proceed. During these moments, the enemy of our souls may deceive them into thinking there is no way out or lead them to indulge in selfish or disempowering thoughts that go against their values, goals, and vision for life.

In such circumstances, it’s crucial for men to resist the temptation to forget their priorities and instead view transitional spaces as opportunities to embrace discomfort and move forward.

James 1:2-4 speaks directly to the idea of embracing uncomfortable seasons in life. As men navigate these transitional periods, it’s important to remember that difficulties are not necessarily a sign of failure or abandonment by God. Rather, they can be opportunities for growth and transformation through which we develop resilience and deepen our faith. By persevering through these challenges with an attitude of joy and trust in God’s plan for our lives, we can emerge stronger and more complete than before.

It is also important to recognize that every season in life carries a focus and purpose. In his book, ‘Perpetual’, author Howard Rachinsky breaks down life seasons into two main categories: Calling (moments in our life when God uses experiences to cultivate our life purpose) and Character (where God works on developing the attributes of our heart). Within these two categories, there are seven seasons that Rachinsky identifies: Preparation, Productivity, Transition, Impartation, Despair, Famine, and Refreshing.

While it may seem daunting to embrace these seasons and acknowledge the liminal spaces in between them, doing so can bring clarity and order to our lives. As Rachinsky notes: “Seeing the beautiful order of the seasons in life turned my chaos into clarity…You can’t go around what God wants you to go through.”

So, rather than wishing away difficult moments, we should approach them with perseverance and trust in their ultimate purpose. Navigating these challenging periods helps us develop resilience and faith toward growth and transformation.

If you are a man who is currently experiencing a liminal space, I encourage you to embrace this opportunity for growth and transformation. Seek guidance from Godly mentors and surround yourself with other men who share your values. As you navigate the discomfort of this phase in your life, remember that it is an in-between state; neither here nor there - simply “in-between” what was and what is yet to come.