Leaving Familiar Behind: How God Called Me To My Promised Land

Today marks three years since my faith-filled move to Texas—a moment that forever changed the trajectory of my life. It was a time when everything seemed to be falling apart. My world was in pieces, and the only thing I had left to cling to was the tattered remnants of my faith. Yet, even in that uncertainty, God’s grace carried me. As I reflect on His goodness today, I’m reminded of how He used what felt like brokenness to lead me to a season of restoration, purpose, and promise.

Ever since I can remember, I’ve had a desire to live in Texas. I didn’t know why—it was just there, long before I understood desires or the God who places them. Over the past year and a half, I had gotten married, started a new job, and moved to my dream state. To outsiders, it sounds exciting, but for someone like me—resistant to change—it’s been a challenge.

For 27 years, Mississippi was my normal. I knew its dark history, its culture, and its comfort—family and friends within driving distance, structure, and stability. Yet by the end of 2021, my “normalcy” was disrupted.

One Sunday, sitting on my grandma’s bed, I listened to Bishop T.D. Jakes preach, “Today is your inflection point.” Those words struck me deeply. Then I heard it: “Pack. Throw away what no longer serves you.” Looking at my pink suitcases, something clicked. I was in transition—and I hadn’t even realized it yet.

Soon after, things intensified. My marriage came under attack. Lifelong friendships and mentor relationships crumbled. It felt like everything familiar was breaking apart. Then, a trusted couple told us plainly,

It was both frightening and freeing—it confirmed what God had planted in my heart about Texas long ago.

On January 22, 2022, with no job offers, no home in our name, and just an invitation from that couple, we packed up and left Mississippi. The six-hour drive to Texas was filled with conversation, Popeyes chicken, sermons, and anticipation. After several hours on the road, we finally saw the sign that served as a powerful reminder that God’s promises are always the guiding light, leading us toward brighter tomorrows and new beginnings.

We had made it to our “Promised Land”—a land filled with opportunity, beauty, and abundance. It was overwhelming to see the endless homes, greenery, and wealth. How could it take just six hours to leave poverty and step into prosperity?

For weeks, we stayed with the couple who helped us transition. They shared their story of restoration—one of homelessness to owning their own business—and reminded us of God’s provision. Though we didn’t have all the answers, God’s peace confirmed we were right where we needed to be.

Transition is exhausting. I think of the Israelites wandering the wilderness, constantly on the move, never settled. I’ve lived out of air mattresses and storage units, and I understand the fatigue of not being “home.”

On difficult days, I remind myself: I can feel what I feel, but I must submit it to God. And then, I declare:

Whatever your “this” is—transition, heartbreak, grief, uncertainty—know that it’s serving a purpose. That thorn in your side will make you holy, Christ-like, and a vessel for God’s glory. Trust Him in the process.

If you're navigating a season of transition, uncertainty, or growth, remember you’re not alone. Take a moment to reflect on how God might be orchestrating your story. Share your experiences in the comments below—I’d love to hear about the places He’s leading you. Let’s walk this journey together!