Thursday, May 10, 2012

Seasons of Life



School is winding down. Another year has passed. Soon each graduate will don cap and gown, march onto the stage, and receive a well-earned diploma. A thrilling time. A time for reflection. A time for celebration.

One season of life has been completed and another is about to begin. The excitement of venturing out for the first time is mixed with a twinge of apprehension about the future. Countless decisions vie for attention. Which college to attend? What major to choose? Where to work? Who to date?

I remember heading off to college with many of these questions swirling around in my mind. Not a single one takes God by surprise. His Word offers help and guidance for every season of life. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths," (Proverbs 3:5-6; KJV). Whether poised on the brink of leaving home for the first time, or dropping your high-school graduate off on campus, the Heavenly Father's point is clear: don't try to figure everything out, bring each concern to Me, and trust Me to guide your every step.

Look back on your life. Take a look at God's track record. Has He ever failed you? If He's brought you this far, won't He continue to lead you? Let His Word encourage you: "...I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee," (Hebrews 13:5b). He has a purpose and a plan for your life. "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end," (Jeremiah 29:11).

As you yield to Him, be aware of His work in your life. Remember Joseph? The one whose brothers sold him into slavery? Despite his difficult circumstances, he submitted himself to the Lord with amazing results. Over and over we're told that other's noticed the hand of God on Joseph's life. (Genesis 39:3, 21; 41:38). Eventually the Lord allowed Joseph to become second in command in the land of Egypt, and to be reconciled with his family.

Life can be exciting, but it can also be intimidating. Remember that God loves you and is in control. Seek His guidance and then follow the path He lays out for you. Praise Him when He uses you to point others to Him. No matter what season of life you're in, look forward with anticipation to the unique plan God has for you! And celebrate!

7 comments:

  1. So true. This also tends to be such a busy time of year, but it's the perfect time to stop and reflect.

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    1. Great to see you, Julie! Busyness can keep us distracted from what's really important in life. Have a beautiful weekend! God bless!

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  2. Thank you for this reminder Maria! Life is truly exciting but intimidating. Hopefully we can all find the balance we need through God's word and guidance xoxo

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    1. Hi KC! Balance IS key! Praying things are going well for you, my friend. Hugs and blessings!

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  3. I love the different seasons in the year and in life. Yet, change always hurts a bit, doesn't it?

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  4. Nope. God's NEVER failed:) Beautiful words, Maria. I'm not always into the winter season, wish it could always be summer...but no matter where I am, God's right there.

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  5. Life's seasons are always bittersweet for me, but I know we're always exactly where He wants us to be. I can't promise that I'll look forward to each new season on the horizon, but I do promise to welcome it, even if with some trepidation at first. ;-)

    Blessings to you and yours!

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