By: Noah Stamps, Online Experience Ministry Leader
Before becoming part of Central’s team, I spent 20 years serving in the United States Air Force. During that time, my life was in a constant state of moving from base to base and country to country. Life fell into a rhythm that every Airman understood: two phases—“over” and “next.”
The “over” phase meant coming to terms with the end of a season. It required letting go of what was and moving past emotions like nostalgia, grief, or regret. If you couldn’t recognize that something was truly over, the past had a way of holding you back.
The “next” phase was about embracing the future. It was the start of something new, a chance to discover, to grow, and to prepare for what lay ahead. When you released the “over,” you had the capacity to focus your energy on “next.”
But here’s the truth: no one lives in “over” or “next.” We live in the present. We live in the dwell period—that space between what was and what will be. It’s a time of reflection, when we thank God for the season that ended, even if it came with loss or difficulty. It’s also a time of preparation, when we make space in our lives for what God is bringing next.
The Air Force helped Airmen navigate this constant rhythm by teaching that resilience requires balance. Every person has room for growth in four areas: mental, physical, spiritual, and social. When those areas are healthy, we’re better equipped to move past yesterday and handle the challenges of tomorrow.
As I’ve reflected on that truth, I’ve realized that this same balance is modeled for us in scripture. One verse in particular captures it perfectly. It’s Luke 2:52: “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”
The Dwell Period of Jesus
This verse is like a hinge in the story of Jesus. Before it, we see Him as a child: born in Bethlehem, presented at the temple, visited by shepherds and wise men, and as a boy teaching in the temple at age 12. After it, we see Him as an adult, launching His public ministry—teaching, healing, and ultimately going to the cross.
But Luke 2:52 is the quiet bridge between those seasons. It summarizes nearly two decades of Jesus’ life, His “hidden years” in Nazareth. During that dwell period, Jesus prepared. He didn’t rush. He grew in a balanced way: mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially.
That’s more than a description. It’s a model for us. Jesus shows us how to use the dwell period—those in-between seasons—to become ready for whatever God has next.
1. Wisdom – Mental Growth
Jesus grew in wisdom. He studied scripture, asked questions, and gained knowledge. By the time He entered His ministry, people were amazed at His teaching, but it was shaped by years of learning and listening.
For us, wisdom isn’t just about information. It’s about discernment—knowing how to apply truth to real life. In your dwell period, what are you feeding your mind with? Are you soaking in God’s word, seeking wise counsel, and sharpening your perspective? Or are you filling your mind with noise that leaves you anxious and distracted?
2. Stature – Physical Growth
Jesus grew in stature. Though He was fully divine, He was also fully human. He experienced growth, fatigue, hunger, and physical limitations.
For us, caring for our bodies is part of our spiritual stewardship. We can’t serve well if we’re constantly running on empty. Rest, exercise, and healthy rhythms are not selfish—they’re part of honoring God with the bodies He gave us. How are you taking care of your physical health so that you can sustain the work God has called you to?
3. Favor with God – Spiritual Growth
Jesus grew in favor with God. His entire life flowed out of His relationship with His Father. When His ministry began, we see Him often retreating to pray, anchoring Himself in God’s presence. That pattern was forged in His dwell period.
For us, our relationship with God is the foundation of everything else. Growth in favor with God isn’t about earning His love. We already have it. It’s about deepening our connection with Him through prayer, scripture, worship, and obedience. How are you cultivating that relationship today?
4. Favor with Man – Social Growth
Jesus also grew in favor with man. He worked alongside His family, lived in His community, and built relationships. By the time He began His ministry, people respected Him as someone of integrity and character.
For us, relationships are not optional. God created us for community. Favor with others doesn’t mean people-pleasing; it means living in such a way that people see Christ in us. Who in your life needs encouragement, reconciliation, or your time right now? How might God use your relationships as part of His plan?
Conclusion: Don’t Waste the Dwell Period
Luke 2:52 reminds us that growth takes time. It doesn’t happen all at once. Jesus shows us that the dwell period is not wasted space. It’s where God does some of His most important shaping work.
So, where are you right now? Maybe something in your life feels “over.” Maybe you’re waiting for what’s “next.” But right now, you’re in the dwell period. Don’t rush past it. Don’t despise it. Use it.
I want to challenge you to reflect on these four areas—wisdom, stature, favor with God, and favor with man. Spend some time in prayer and ask God: Where do I need to grow? Then take one small, intentional step in that area.
Let’s commit to being people who model this kind of balanced growth. Let’s be wise in our decisions, healthy in our bodies, faithful in our walk with God, and kind in our relationships. If we do, we won’t just be waiting for what’s next—we’ll be ready for it!