The Joy of the Journey: Winter Will Fade

The Joy of the Journey

Winter Will Fade

 

It’s been a week of winter weather here in Northwest Georgia. I love the snow and wintertime, but I know many people cannot stand cold weather.  However, just like this world has seasons, so does our spiritual walk with God.  In the natural world, wintertime is the time of cold winds, darker, longer days, andsometimes snow. Last night, when I walked outside, it was like somebody had a soft light glowing throughout the whole countryside.  The snow was being illuminated by the night lights. It was so wondrous to behold.  Seeing everything white made it look so clean and fresh, just like a soul that’s been freshly washed in the blood of Jesus; we are made whiter than snow, the Bible tells us.

 

In contrast, spring is a season of new beginnings, growth, and rejuvenation. The earth blossoms with life as plants awaken from winter slumber, flowers bloom, and animals stir with renewed energy. As Christians, we can also experience a spiritual spring– a time of renewal and revival in our relationship with God.

 

Scripture teaches us to recognize and embrace the seasons of life. In Ecclesiastes 3:1, we are reminded that “For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven.” Just as there are seasons in nature, there are also spiritual seasons in our lives. A spiritual spring is a time for spiritual growth, a time to shed the old and embrace the new that God has instore for us.

 

One key aspect of a spiritual spring is the opportunity for renewal. In Romans 12:2, we are instructed, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” This verse encourages us to let go of old patterns of thinking and embrace the transformation that comes from renewing our minds in Christ.

 

Just as spring brings new life to the earth, a spiritual spring brings new life to our faith. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we are reminded that “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” In this season of renewal and revival, we can leave behind the burdens of the past and step into God’s fresh grace and mercy.

 

We must seek God with all our hearts during this spiritual springtime. Jeremiah 29:13 tells us, “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.” By devoting ourselves to prayer, meditation on Scripture, and worship, we can draw closer to God and experience the fullness of His presence in our lives.

 

Just as spring brings forth new fruit from the earth, a spiritual spring can produce spiritual fruit in our lives. Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruits of the Spirit as “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” As we align ourselves with the Holy Spirit and allow Him to work in us, we can bear these fruits in abundance, bringing glory to God and blessing to others.

 

A spiritual spring is also a time of revival – a reawakening of our passion for God and His kingdom.  As we embrace this season of spiritual spring, let us take to heart the words of Isaiah 43:18-19, “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” God is always at work, bringing forth new life and growth in our spiritual journey.

 

Let us be open to the Holy Spirit’s leading and allow Him to bring about a season of renewal and revival in our hearts. May this spiritual spring be a time of deepening our relationship with God, bearing fruit for His kingdom, and experiencing His presence in a fresh and powerful way. Just as nature awakens to the warmth and light of spring, may our spirits be renewed and revived by the light of God’s love and grace.  This winter season will eventually fade, as will your spiritual winter if you’re walking through one. The day will come soon when the cold will give way, and the warmth of the Son of God will fill you once again.