4 Stages of Progression

Nest, Test, Rest, Best

I'm not sure if everyone goes through these stages. But I am sure that anyone who desires to progress does.

Nesting is a preparation period, like a bird in the nest. You are safe and sheltered; life is fairly easy and blissful, even exciting in anticipation.

Then comes the test. This is the wilderness. A time when nothing seems to go right, when things are very difficult, confusing, trying. You may feel completely lost. But it's important to know all of this is only a test to see how well you can handle it when on your own.

After the test, is rest. Things are noticeably better; peaceful. Certainly a time of rest after the difficulty and strain of the test. A welcome friend.

From rest comes the best. This period of time is simply everything enjoyed during your rest but better. This is the time when everything seems to click, when nothing could possibly go wrong. How lovely and blessed this period is.

When we come to understand and see these stages unfold in our lives we begin to attain true perspective. Perspective that will see us through anything - yes, even the coming test periods. See, this is the meaning of it all. To know where you are at any given period so you can see it in it's true light.

NOTE: that there is only 1 out of the 4 periods that is difficult! The other 3 periods are all varying levels of good things, of blessings and peace.

NOTE: there is no set time period to a given stage. This should not cause a loss of faith in the reality of the 4 stages, rather a constant watchfulness, which is true humility.

NOTE: you will often experience the 4 stages within a stage. For example, if you feel that you are in the Test stage and may be for some time, you will very likely find that you have periods of nest, test, rest, and best within the overall Test stage. This can even occur multiple times with the Test stage...or any of the stages. This is also important to understand in perspective because experiencing a small test period within the main Test stage is literally being in the desert of deserts. But going through a test period within the main Best stage is completely different - obviously much less stress and difficulty, yet still a test.

LAST NOTE: understanding these 4 stages is fundamental to having perspective and peace in abundance as you journey and progress in any aspect of your life.