Embracing the Seasons of Life

Winter, spring, summer and autumn, four seasons, each offering something unique to behold.  Spring brings forth new life and new beginnings as the flowers begin to grow and bears awaken from their long slumber.  Summer is a time where everything is in full bloom and life just seems to cruise along.  During autumn, the leaves change colors and fall from the trees and winter brings frigid temperatures and everything dies or hibernates.

We also experience different seasons in our lives: seasons of life and of death, seasons of new beginnings and of endings, seasons of growth and of stagnation. While some seasons can give you a sense of accomplishment and purpose, other seasons can cause you to become discontent or lack a sense of purpose.

So what does God’s Word say about the seasons?  They happen in our lives for a reason and will always occur.

As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night. Genesis 8:22

To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1

Winter is a season where it seems that everything has died and everyone has left.  But it is during this season that the Lord is closest to us.  Psalm 23:4, “Yeah though I walk through the valley of the shadow of the death I will fear no evil for thou are with me.”  During this time, draw close to Him and seek His face.  Remember, flower bulbs need to go through the dead of winter in order for them to bloom in the spring.

As spring draws near, life begins again and new dreams are formed.  It is now that God is revealing His plans for our lives.  Isaiah 43:19, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?   I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”  Embrace this time and grow, ask Him to reveal His purpose for your life.

Summer brings rest and a time to enjoy.  A time to continue along the path we are on and a time to pour into others.  A time to be content.  Philippians 4:11, “ … for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”  In this season, slow down to smell the roses but don’t become stagnant. Pour into others from your strength and encourage those around you.

Then autumn returns and the foliage begins.  There is a rustling of leaves as the wind blows through the trees.  Fall is a time of production, preparation and harvest.  Titus 3:14, “Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order to provide for urgent needs and not live unproductive lives.”  Study His Word and learn all you can about Him.

Let us learn, grow, sow and reap in each season so we may run the race with endurance and live lives that are pleasing and acceptable to the Lord. What season are you living in right now?