I always feel a bit of a thrill when I see buds forming on branches.  They are the promise of spring!  As I notice seasons change, it makes me think about seasons in our lives.  I  journaled about this the other day, and I’ll share with you what I wrote:

“The branch is still bare from the winter.  A few dead things still cling to it; leaves, maybe berries.  In the winter, it enters a season where all from last spring and summer die.  It is a barren, cold time where it becomes dormant.  In our lives, there are times when we also let go and entrust the past to God.

But beneath the surface, within the branches and trunk, there is life.  Rest.  Preparation.  Rebuilding.  Sap moves, buds slowly form, and then suddenly seem to appear.  The winter has served a purpose, leading into new spring, with new life and growth and fruitfulness. God is at work in the seemingly dormant places of our lives.  He is at work right where we are.

This spring would not be possible if last summer had been held on to.  Clung to.  With closed fists.  There is no room for worries over leaves that fell last fall, and branches bared over the winter.  These humble branches now leave room for a new season.  Watch for God to be at work, with unabashed joy and trust, as new leaves come forth.  He is our Redeemer God, who has a way of bringing life and new growth out of what was seemingly dead.”

Relinquish to God the old leaves of last fall.  Trust Him with that which is past.

Accept renewal and rebuilding in the winter.  Trust Him to be at work while we rest, and receive the gifts in this waiting time.

Hope in God and be watchful as He does a new thing!  Anticipate what He is doing, and will do, with trust.

Jesus relinquished his earthy life to die on the cross.  His death promises us that he can meet us in the dormant winter places in our lives.  His resurrection promises that he has the power to give us life too.  Because of this we anticipate the new life and growth and seasons God will work in our lives!

“For he was crucified in weakness, but lives by the power of God.”  ~II Cor. 13:4 (ESV)

“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” ~Colossians 4:2

 

Will you join me in choosing an attitude of trust and anticipation to see God at work?  

This perspective and attitude will have a positive impact on every aspect of our lives!  

 

Kathryn Featherstone is a certified Christian Life Coach by the Board of Christian Life Coaches.  She is trained by Gallup for coaching with CliftonStrengths assessment and resources.  She’d like to encourage you in your journey!  Write her a note or see her Coaching page.