Autumn is one of my favorite times of the year. The changing leaves, pumpkin everything, sweaters, crisp morning air, and, of course, football. This year I had the privilege of going back to spend part of the autumn season in my home state of West Virginia. While I could never forget the beauty that had always surrounded me there, having been gone, I had a renewed appreciation for the mountains, the lush hillsides, and the beauty of the changing leaves. Rather than the scenery being a part of my daily routine, I felt like I was seeing it through fresh eyes while I soaked up the beauty of God’s handiwork.
The changing seasons prompted me to re-read one of my favorite scriptures:
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance. Ecclesiastes 3:1-4
The scripture reminds me there have been occasions in my life when I have questioned God’s timing or His direction. “Why am I being denied the pregnancy I want so desperately?” “Lord, we are moving to Kentucky?” “Lord, why this? Why now?”
Often it is so difficult to absorb the “season” of life we are in. We question our circumstances…..we question the timing…..we question the direction. These are the times when we must remember God’s timing is always best. HIs will and timing are perfect for us…..we may not understand…..but this is what faith is all about.
When we rely on our faith and trust our Father, we feel the “season” change in all its beauty. It is then we begin to see things with fresh eyes and with a renewed appreciation of God’s handiwork. It is then we have clarity. It is then we find peace in our circumstances and in our lives. It is then we realize to everything there truly is a season.
Take time to enjoy this beautiful time of year…..and to thank God for this “season” of your life.