Courage in All Seasons

“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:” Ecc 3:1

This passage in Ecclesiastes seems particularly appropriate as we anxiously await the arrival of spring. Winter always feels like a long season but this year felt like it would never end with its grey and damp pervasive presence. Despite how long any season feels, it is an inevitable fact that it will end. This is true of the seasons of our lives as well. During particular pleasant seasons of our lives it can be easy to say ‘God, please let this season remain.’ But the truth is that without the change of season, growth cannot occur. Each season has a purpose in our lives—spring brings new life, summer is vibrant and beautiful, autumn gives opportunity for reflection, and the winter gives us time for rest. Trusting God’s greater picture and knowing that He not only is the author of our story but the one who shepherds us through it allows us to journey on without fear. 

In my current study of the Old Testament, I am reading example after example of God calling someone into a season of uncertainty—Jacob, Joseph, Noah, Moses, Aaron, Joshua—and the list goes on. Every time I read their stories two things occur to me: 1. What tremendous things God accomplished through those He called! 2. How doubt in God’s provision can creep into even the staunchest believer during difficult times. Time and again we witness God’s faithfulness through a season and yet when we enter a new season, those old friends ‘doubt’ and ‘uncertainty’ make an appearance. Thankfully, God is faithful and true and His promises are everlasting. He does not abandon us in our weakness, rather He carries us through it. For whatever season you are in I leave you with God’s promise to Joshua: 
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“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

by:  Joy Barger, Community Member