There comes a time in every position, place, ministry and role when the grace which was once upon you has lifted. You’re doing what you’ve always done but it is simply not working any more. You’re diligently fulfilling your duty but the joy has disappeared. You’re going through the motions without any sense of purpose and mission. This could well be a sign that it’s time to start to prepare to move on.

There was a season in David‘s life when serving Saul by playing the harp would soothe the king’s inner conflict and quench evil spirits. However, one day that all changes. As David plays, Saul hurls a spear at him, attempting to kill him. From this point forward, David’s relationship with Saul and his role would never be the same. He would have to move on. There comes a point when you can simply no longer stay where you are. It is too dangerous, damaging and detrimental to you and to those you love. It’s time to start preparing a graceful and strategic exit. Go where you are celebrated, not tolerated.

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1 Samuel 16:21-23

“David came to Saul and entered his service. Saul liked him very much, and David became one of his armor-bearers. Then Saul sent word to Jesse, saying, “Allow David to remain in my service, for I am pleased with him.” Whenever the spirit from God came on Saul, David would take up his lyre and play. Then relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him.”

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1 Samuel 18:10-12

“The next day an evil spirit from God came forcefully on Saul. He was prophesying in his house, while David was playing the lyre, as he usually did. Saul had a spear in his hand and he hurled it, saying to himself, “I'll pin David to the wall.” But David eluded him twice. Saul was afraid of David, because the Lord was with David but had departed from Saul.”