The last few years have been challenging to many. In fact, I’m not aware of anyone who has not been affected. It has been necessary to not only discipline myself to “think on good things,” (Philippians 4:8) but to also constantly remind myself of the timing and seasons, which are very important to God.

We are like the earth, experiencing various times where life is full of hope, joy and life, turning to loss or despair. Whatever season we find ourselves in, we learn that they do not last forever and that He faithfully walks beside us. We mature with each passing moment of time, as we learn to flow with the rhythm of life. God desires to use every season in life to mature us and bring glory to Him.

Ecclesiates 3:1 -8 declares to every thing there is a season: “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven - A time to give birth, and a time to die; A time to plant, and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear 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. A time to throw stones, and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace, and a time to shun embracing. A time to search, and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart, and a time to sew together; 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.  

There is an appointed time for everything under heaven. No matter what season we experience we are always encouraged to hold on to Him – the God of Hope and look to our Father to bring beauty from the ashes.

We find as we mature the importance of connection with each other, especially in his Body. The immeasurable moments I have been encouraged by others is priceless – those who have given a word of hope or a prayer of strength. Be ready in every season to share His love. Each of you carry within you the power to give support and encouragement to those in distress as declared in Isaiah 61:1-3. Consider reading the following aloud as you declare the gift of God within you to serve and touch a confused and hurting world.

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives, and freedom to prisoners; to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn, to grant those who mourn in Zion, giving them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a spirit of fainting, so they will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”

You are made for greatness! No matter what age or season of life – stir up the gifts within and release them to those in your sphere of influence. And let’s watch out for those negative belief structures that will appear to hinder your advancement.

Negative Beliefs:

I must do something good to get God to act on my behalf.

If I am not perfect for God, He will not be able to reward me.

I want to be in control because I can’t trust God to look out for me.

God will punish me if I make a mistake.

 

His good news and Scriptural Truths:

God is merciful. His mercies are new every morning.

God will allow me to experience trials, which help me develop my trust in Him.

Rebellion is like witchcraft in God’s eyes. I can bring devastation to those who wield  it or submit to it.

I am not controlled by my circumstances. I always have a choice in how I respond and what I choose to believe.

Facing my fears brings truth and allows me to choose freedom.

Learning to give thanks in everything brings comfort and encouragement, which gives life to my soul.

 

Scripture Mediations – It is written:

Romans 15:13: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Psalm 9:9-10 “The Lord also will be a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble, and those who know his name will put their trust in Him; For You, O Lord, have not forsaken those who see You.”

Prayer:

Father, forgive me for my lack of understanding and knowledge of your ways. Help me to trust you and to understand your nature and character, your desires and your plans. You are the Way, the Truth and the Light. Help me to know who you really are in my life.”

Blessings to you in this new season and new era,