Encouragement . . . for the Journey

Seasons . . .
"Praise be to the name of our God forever and ever; wisdom and power are His. He changes times and seasons. . ."

Daniel 2:1-2

I am so enjoying this beautiful fall season with its lovely, brilliant colors. I especially love looking at the tall maples in our front yard. I love the way the sun shines through the leaves, glistening brightly, showing off the golden hues with some deep orange mixed in. It simply warms my heart, yet I know in such a short time, things will change. These lovely colors will fade, the leaves will fall and in its place a stark picture compared to the fullness that was once there.

Life is so much like this, just as Solomon quoted in Ecclesiastes, "there is a time for every season." One minute we find ourselves in a season of brilliance, where everything surrounding us seems golden, peaceful, lovely to look at and a place we'd like to stay. Then all too quickly things change. Sometimes our circumstances change gradually like the leaves that fall from the trees, fluttering, swirling in the air as they make their home on the ground below. Other times our circumstances rapidly change.

Change happens, but the important question to ask is, "How do we handle our changing circumstances?" When reality sets in and things look bleak and empty, what do you do? Do you run to the One who can give you perfect peace amidst the change you're experiencing or do you run from His warm embrace? God allows different seasons to come in our lives for His purpose and His glory. What season have you found yourself in lately?

"We rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope. And we know that hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy spirit, whom He has given us."

Romans 5:2-5

"The eyes of the LORD are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love."

Psalm 33:18

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

Romans 15:13

"Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Isaiah 40:31