The Coming of Winter

The day is yours, and yours also the night; you established the sun and moon.  It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter.  –Psalm 74:16, 17 

It looks like winter is finally here.  The coming of winter means that the days will be shorter, the nights longer, and the bright and clear sunny skies may be fewer and farther between.  I know from personal experience that it’s easy to get down and discouraged during these long, cold winter months.  This is why as followers of Christ we do well to not only take care of ourselves both physically and emotionally, but spiritually as well.  A wonderful defense against the winter blues is to pray daily and stay in the Word of God. 

The Word of God reminds us that the Lord established the planets and also the seasons.  Let us not despair that cold weather has come, but rather let us seize the time as an opportunity for personal growth and service to our fellow man.  If you live in an area that has harsh winters, we know that countless people will be in need of basic necessities even more this season.  A tremendous way to combat the winter blues is to become proactive in reaching out to those in need.  Jesus said that if we give even a cup of cold water in His name that we will receive a heavenly reward (Matthew 10:42).  This could also apply to giving a bowl of soup, a blanket, a coat, or pair of shoes to those in need as well.  

We share the love of Jesus in what we say, and we also share His love in what we do.  Anytime we start to feel down this winter, look around and find a way to help others.  Soup kitchens, homeless shelters, food banks, and hospitals are always looking for volunteers.  Get involved this winter and show the love of Christ to others.  You will be blessed and will be a blessing to others.  

I am a person who knows what it’s like to get the winter blues because I absolutely thrive on sunshine.  Even in the dead of winter, as long as the sun is shining, I am going to bundle up and get outside for a while.  And on those bitterly cold nights you will find me and my faithful dog, Ada, taking long walks and enjoying the feel of the fresh, crisp snow under our feet.  Do you see what I am seeking to accomplish?  This is all part of a strategy for rejoicing in the Lord and walking in His grace even in the dark and dreary days of winter. 

God is faithful, and as He is faithful, He is also able to help us through each day.  Look to Christ, seek His blessings, and reach out in His name. 

Springtime is just around the corner!