As the fall season truly begins to unfurl her canopy of colors in the variety of trees, I’m once again in awe of God’s beauty displayed. And I look for life’s truths and lessons to learn through nature.
The cooling weather brings a change of season. And as the season changes so does nature. While the oak trees begin to shed their leaves, other trees transform with variegated leaves of golden yellow, bright red, deep burgundy, vibrant orange or celadon green.
Fall is invigorating with the display of beauty along with the changing environment. And especially after the long and brutal summer of high temperatures—at times the heat too exhausting to bear—the fall is a relief.
Nature reflects the reality of life in other ways too. Like this past heated summer, many have come through a fiery season of hardships with health issues, lost jobs, or difficulties due to rising inflation, rising gas prices, increased grocery prices, living expenses and more. They’ve been in a hard season with life’s trials. And at times it’s been difficult for some to see the goodness of God in the midst of it all. And while the cooling fall weather offers respite from the languishing summer, a changing season doesn’t yet seem to offer relief for many.
But like the promises of God, we must hold onto hope and His Word. We can lift our eyes to the beauty all around us and see His goodness displayed even with change. And like the trees that shed the old to prepare for winter, perhaps it’s time to shed thoughts of doubt, fear, and unbelief. Maybe it’s time for us to reevaluate and adjust some of our priorities and goals. Possibly we need let go of something like an overly demanding job or a toxic relationship to embrace change. Maybe we need to dig deeper into the eternal truths of God’s Word and see what He has planned in this transition of life.
He is a good God and His beauty, truth, and promises are all around us—even in a changing season.
Beloved:
Do not fear the fiery trials of life or the change occurring all around you. But rather come to Me and find peace and rest. Just like the changing season, I’m bringing you into a new season of life. Though at times you feel uncertain and fearful, let not your heart be troubled. I’m for you and not against you. You are My beloved. I will care for you and help you.
“Daniel answered and said, ‘Blessed be the name of God forever and ever: for wisdom and might are His. And He changes the times and the seasons…’”(Daniel 2:20-21)