www.fbcnt.org
By Pastor Anthony L. Scott
Seasons are a result of the rotation and tilting of the earth’s axis. These seasons also represent divisions of the year marked by changes in the weather, the ecology, and hours of daylight. Some of the physiological changes we associate with the differing seasons are mood and attitude adjustments that coincide with various times of the year.
However, there are other seasons in our lives that are unrelated to the natural events in our environment. These may be the birth of a child, employment changes, health issues, or the death of a loved one. Millicent Hunter, in her book, Don’t Die in the Winter, defines these as spiritual weather conditions.
Another author, Jessica K. Ingram suggests a relationship between the seasons we experience and our life purposes. She writes that we have seasons for great joy as well as seasons of consolation. Ingram further points out that during our seasons of severe distress, when God seems far away, we should be asking, what is the purpose for this time in my life?
The question is never whether you or I will ever go through a season but how will we handle the seasons as they come. During environmental changes we naturally adjust. For instance, in the winter we put on more articles of clothing and in summer we take off apparel. So then, how do we adjust to the spiritual seasons that accompany life? According to the Word of God, Hope is critical to handling of these seasons.
Emily Dickinson said, “Hope is that thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without words and never stops at all.” God sent His Son to earth in order that we might have hope. Despite how low or how long our cry, He hears us and knows our hearts. Just like love is not love until it is given, this is also true of hope. Hope was given in Jesus Christ.
In order for the “tune to never stop” Dickinson’s reference, we must accept what God has done and is doing, all the while understanding that His grace and mercy are fresh every morning. Realize that through these fluctuating periods of life, God is preparing us for Him. So, if we are going to live the abundant life that is promised, we need to know the Savior who gives us hope and surround ourselves with people who can nurture the hope that is within. Jesus’ love will get you through the lowest and most turbulent points in life. Give Him room this week to infuse your life with this eternal Hope!
