Summer, fall, winter, spring… Summer, fall, winter, spring…

Isn’t it interesting that these four seasons never cease their continuous cycle? They never take a break, they fulfill their purpose, and start all over again. Each season exists for a reason, and each season impacts everything around it. Much like weather, we experience seasons in our own spiritual lives. I am sure that each of us can look at our lives and compare it to a season such as summer, fall, winter or spring. Some of us may be in the most joyous seasons of our lives, and we feel nothing can stop us. While others of us might be found in the lowest of lows, darkest of darks and we feel there is no hope of light for miles and miles. And of course, there are many in between seasons.

God has intentionally allowed you to be in the exact season you are in right now. It is not a coincidence, and it is not merely by chance that you are there. He allows us to experience certain situations to strengthen us, and to build us up. Even if you have found yourself in the season of winter, you may not be able to see this now, but you are being strengthened and molded to be a more Christ-like individual. You will soon enter into a season of springtime, and glance back at this season and have confidence that you are the person you are because of the winter season you persevered through.

Just as much as our darker seasons have purpose, so do our seasons of joy; our spring and summer seasons. Our God is such a good and gracious Father, that He desires for us to be joyful and happy! These are the seasons that allow us to smile and laugh spontaneously and reflect on the richness of the Lord. These seasons also provide us with enough energy and resilience to push through the cold and harsh stings that the fall and winter seasons can often lay upon us.

Brothers and sisters, wherever you have found yourself, whichever season you are in, find comfort in the fact that God has specifically placed you there, and there is reason for it. Know that the Lord is with you, walking side by side, in this season. Turn to Him in time of confusion, frustration and even in the times of joy, because He is the author of your life, and He will provide you with answers.

Lean into the season that you are in, and keep fighting the Good Fight,

Brenda Abel