For seven years, I was at home fulltime with our kids. While I did freelance work to bring in some income, I enjoyed the flexibility and routine of that season. Meals were normally served on time, I was able to deep clean my house regularly, and I enjoyed throwing baby showers and other ways of blessing others. When I returned to fulltime work, my state of normal changed, and I had to shift my expectations.
Psalm 1:1-3 tells us, “Oh, the joys of those who . . . delight in the law of the Lord . . . . They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” The reality, however, is that every season doesn’t feel or look the same—even for those who “delight in the law of the Lord.” And while it is true that believers in Jesus can learn to be content in various circumstances (Philippians 4:11-12), some seasons require greater adjustment than others.
In 1 Kings 18:1-46 we find God doing amazing things through Elijah, even to the point of him being able to outrun Ahab’s chariot (1 Kings 18:46). A short time later, however, the prophet found himself fearing for his life, struggling to understand the plan of God, and seeking shelter in the wilderness (1 Kings 19:3-4). He struggled to see the reason for the challenges he was facing.
We can feel the same way at times. The season suddenly changes, and we can’t seem to find our bearing. For Elijah, the answer came as he experienced God’s presence not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in the “gentle whisper” (1 Kings 19:11-12). Appearing in the chaos, it reminds us of the Holy Spirit being alive in us. God invites us to wrap ourselves in His presence and trust in His purposes.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Hebrews 12:1-13
More:
Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 and think of at least two occasions (in your life or someone else’s) when God made a season beautiful “for its own time.”
Next:
What season are in you in right now, and what adjustment(s) has it required you to make? How can you learn to rest in God’s presence?
Gary Shultz on December 18, 2016 at 6:15 am
Hi Regina: Yes, life does have it’s seasons, the ticking of the clock assures that will happen. Often life is referred to as the seasons with time and age; however, you seem to be hinting at a more circumstantial period. Along with time we move into different areas, sometimes anticipated, other times a complete shock. It may be good or it may bring unwelcomed change. We seem to be able to flow easily into good times and areas, but like Elijah, shocking developments cause us to recoil and stagger under the abrupt change. And I do believe that is when we need to find that “gentle whisper”. We need the voice and encouragement of our God who does not change and cares for us through each of ours. The ever constant, in a life of change, the One of pure intent and grace toward us as we sometimes tumble into life changes. It is no mistake that God is refereed to as a rock either. He always whispers His love at this season. Thanks Regina. Enjoy the season of Christmas.
Regina Franklin on December 18, 2016 at 7:21 pm
Dear Gary,
You captured the essence of what I was hoping to share–that seasons we expect flow naturally but sometimes the season doesn’t look like we expected, and the “shocking developments cause us to recoil and stagger under the abrupt change.” The older I get, the more I am convinced that life will continue to be unpredictable. How constant and sure, though, is the knowledge that God is both timeless and faithful. Thank you for sharing. Merry Christmas to you!
kscott2016 on December 18, 2016 at 6:49 am
I love reading these as part of my morning devotionals. I add it to the other 2 devotionals I have already.
God IS good all the time!!!
Regina Franklin on December 18, 2016 at 7:18 pm
Yes, He is!
hsnpoor on December 18, 2016 at 9:24 am
This is such a relatable reading, Regina, and I love the way you’ve tied our life seasons with the story of Elijah! Gary, thank you for your insight and reminder that the one constant we can depend on in life is change and the one thing that does not change in the life of a believer is God, who is also a constant presence and friend. Blessed Lord’s Day to everyone today and everyday!
Regina Franklin on December 18, 2016 at 7:18 pm
Thank you, hsnpoor! Blessings to you!