Discern Your Season

 

Ecc. 3:  1-4     

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the 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."

Southerners often don’t fully understand the seasons.  We had many days in the 70’s this winter. Even the trees and shrubs get confused and bud before the last freeze of the year. I got an education in seasons when we planned a trip to New England one May. The tourist guide said that May was "OFF SEASON”, but that meant little to us! Upon arrival, l we found that most inns and restaurants were closed. The ground was slushy, and no flowers bloomed. We experienced being out of season, in the right place at the wrong time.

Are you feeling a little “off-season”? Do you see others moving into ministries, yet doors haven’t opened for you?  Have your plans been delayed by work obligations or the need to care for a family member? Does your life look different than you expected? Whatever your season, God intends to use it for your growth and transformation.

 It's not always easy to discern the season you are in - to be in the right place in the right season. The calendar marks the first day of Spring, but spiritual seasons are not so easily recognized. The Lord will give wisdom when we seek Him.

 Understanding our season enables us to make the most of the lessons it teaches.  If we steward the season well, we won’t compare our lives with others or strive to move on to the next season too soon.  Our faith will grow, bringing peace with it.  God promises that we will bring forth fruit in season. If we expect things out of season, we rush God.

 

• Elisha had a season of serving Elijah and a season of leading
• David had seasons as shepherd, military hero, king, dethroned king
• Saul did not operate within his season. He couldn't accept his successor and could not get over God choosing someone else.

 We learn from nature that seasons do not last forever!

 Questions to ponder, pray, share:       

-How would I describe the season of life I am in?     

-How does remembering past seasons offer perspective to my present circumstances?

·       --Am I offering gratitude to God for His past faithfulness in my life?

·       --Am I offering worship to Him - for “He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23