Changing Seasons

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (CEV)

Everything on earth has its own time and its own season

Philippians 1:6 (LB)

I am sure that God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in his grace until his task within you is finally finished on that day when Jesus Christ returns.

- Trees grow maturely but slowly. Like trees, we too grow with the help of time, learnings, nutrients, etc.  Trees grow through sunlight, water, etc. Some other plants are cared by people yet some other plants , even without supervision of people, grow. For instance, God provides rain. Seasons change and trees experience this too.

- trees don't grow overnight. We too, who live in a world of "instant" everything tend to think that things achieved faster are better. But everything takes time. God is never in a hurry because he has perfect timing for everything. Hence, everything in our lives are being allowed and happening for a reason. It all leads to God's purpose being fulfilled in our lives.

- Looking again at trees, some of them grow and die early but some even reach centuries. Sometimes, they even withstand typhoons and become shelter for us. Like the tree, we become strong when we are in Christ. We can withstand storms in life. Take note that this doesn't mean that we're storm-free, but as we grow stronger, we can endure life's trials. Some trees can, but some can't. Maybe they're too young and have not grown strong.

- As mentioned before, trees also experience different seasons in life. All these lead to what we are now. Seasons help us grow. And seasons don't change instantly, they also take time.

- Surrendering to God is a daily activity, not a one-time thing. Everyday, there's a temptation to sin, or choose to abide by our own desires. It's a struggle! But choosing to surrender to God leads to growth and maturity. Acknowledging our need for him is humility and God is pleased with that.

- Nothing is ever easy. This is why we need to ask God for his grace. The good news is that he's willing to give it and that he's the one who began this work in us. It's not in his character to abandon his work in our lives, that's why we can rely on him to help us fulfill the purposes he has for us!

- God is in control. Our failures and guilt may take hold but remember who is in control. Remember who will never leave you. Remember that every season changes. Remember that this life is just temporary and even more so is our problems. They don't define us!

- Having Christ-like character takes so much time, even a lifetime! Our trials on earth may be temporary but our joy in heaven is forever. It will always be a perfect season!

Source and inspiration: Day 28 of the Purpose Driven Life (expanded edition)

From Journal entry of Dec. 2, 2020