Seasons and cycles of life.

There is a time for everything.

and a season for every activity under the heavens:

a time to be born and a time to die,

    a time to plant and a time to uproot,

    a time to kill and a time to heal,

    a time to tear down and a time to build,

    a time to weep and a time to laugh,

    a time to mourn and a time to dance,

    a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,

    a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,

    a time to search and a time to give up,

    a time to keep and a time to throw away,

    a time to tear and a time to mend,

    a time to be silent and a time to speak,

    a time to love and a time to hate,

    a time for war and a time for peace.

Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8

When you look around, especially where I am, we are in the heart of winter. This marks the beginning of the season when nighttime stretches longer, icy temperatures settle in, and blizzards occasionally make their dramatic appearance. In some areas, the landscape transforms into a stunning white wonderland, with snowflakes falling in all shapes and sizes. It’s a season of breathtaking beauty—truly the most picturesque time of the year!

The Bible beautifully captures this in Job 37:6: "He says to the snow, 'Fall on the earth,' and to the rain shower, 'Be a mighty downpour.'" This verse reminds us of God’s sovereign control over the natural world, from the falling snow to the pouring rain. It serves as a metaphor for His power in our lives, reassuring us that just as He commands the weather, He also oversees our personal challenges and victories. We can find comfort in knowing that nothing happens outside of His divine will.

Winter is a season where woollies come out, layering becomes a daily ritual, and wellies are dusted off for cozy walks in the woods. The first of December marks the start of this chilly season, a time filled with anticipation for the holidays and reflections on the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. As lights twinkle in homes and streets, their glow—though man-made—brings a unique illumination that no other season can match. These lights beautifully symbolise the truth that Jesus brings light into the world.

Just as winter has its rhythm, so do the cycles of our lives. While not all circumstances fit neatly into "seasons," we often experience them as having a beginning, a middle, and an end. The Bible frequently speaks about seasons and cycles, offering wisdom for every phase of life. (Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8) Today, I want to reflect on the winter season—or perhaps the next cycle of life that you may be in or entering.

In Genesis 8:12, God said to Noah, "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease." This verse reminds us that seasons have been part of life since the beginning. Everything God creates has a purpose, including the natural and personal seasons of our lives.

Just as the earth experiences the changing seasons of the year, our lives go through different stages, each with its unique challenges and blessings. There are seasons of sadness and heartbreak, seasons of hope and fresh starts, seasons of growth and abundance, and seasons of success or failure. Each season plays a role in shaping us and helping us grow, much like the cycles of nature.

As we step into this winter season, life may feel very different for each of us. For some, it might be a time of joy and celebration, while for others, it may seem hopeless and overwhelming. Perhaps you’re facing a difficult trial—you’ve lost your job, you’re dealing with a pending court case, you’ve just lost a loved one or you’re feeling like giving up entirely. Remember, you are not alone. This challenging time is part of the winter season in your life. Just as winter prepares the earth for renewal and growth, this season in your life has a purpose too. Take heart and know that seasons change, and brighter days are ahead.

For some, the winter season can represent a time of trials and struggles. Spiritually, it is often during this season that the enemy takes the opportunity to attack with relentless force. Winter’s early darkness serves as a powerful reminder that life without the presence of God is enveloped in shadows. The short days reflect how moments of joy, though present, can feel fleeting and unfulfilling.

However, we must guard against spiritual coldness, which can creep into our hearts and pull us away from the blessings and plans the Lord has for us. Even in the midst of winter’s challenges, staying close to God ensures that His light and warmth will guide us through to brighter seasons ahead.

Just as God was with the Israelites as they crossed into the unknown, He is with us today. In Deuteronomy 31:6, He reminds us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Could anything feel more daunting than facing a terrible trial alone? Yet, God assures us that we don’t have to. For those who know Him, His presence is constant—whether in moments of ease or in the midst of our most difficult struggles. No matter how cold and gloomy life may seem, we have a faithful God who cares deeply for us.

Winter can be a season where discouragement and spiritual laziness creep in. But we are not called to settle for mediocrity in our faith. Rise up and shake off the slumber, for the One we serve is mighty and faithful to bring warmth and renewal to even the coldest winters of our lives. Trust in Him and step forward with courage, knowing He is with you every step of the way.

Don’t let this winter season pass by unnoticed. Use this time to draw even closer to the Lord and the plans He has for your life. It’s often in hardship that we are refined and prepared to rise above and move forward with greater strength and purpose.

What may feel like a season of cold and difficulty for many can be your perfect opportunity to warm your spirit in the presence of the Savior. Let this be a time of growth, renewal, and deeper connection with God, allowing Him to shape you for the more extraordinary things He has in store.

As the scripture says in Jeremiah 36:22 tells us, "...... the king was sitting in the winter apartment, with a fire burning in the fire pot in front of him."

This verse paints a picture of comfort and warmth within the king's house during the cold winter. It is a beautiful metaphor for God's provision and care during the 'winter seasons' of our lives. In times when we may feel cold, distant, or isolated, God offers us a haven of warmth, love, and comfort. His presence is a reminder that even in the harshest seasons, He provides a refuge where we can find peace and renewal.

In Psalm 147:17-18, we also read, "He hurls down his hail like pebbles. Who can withstand his icy blast? He sends his word and melts them; he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow."

This passage reflects the immense power of God over creation, reminding us that He controls even the harshest winters. Yet, it also shows His mercy and restoration. Just as He melts the ice and brings the waters to flow, He can bring warmth, renewal, and life into the coldest and most challenging seasons of our lives. His word is powerful, capable of transforming what seems unmovable into a flowing stream of blessings and hope. This is a call to trust in God's wisdom and perfect timing, even as we navigate through our personal 'winters.' Let’s be reassured of God's constant presence and care this season.

As we face our personal winter, I hope this reads as a source of warmth, hope and reassurance of God's eternal love and care!

I pray that our Lord Jesus will saturate your heart with his peace and joy this winter season. Stay blessed, Beloved ones.