Reminders for a Rainy Day

After months of hot, dry, days the rain has returned. Maybe you aren't as short-sighted as I sometimes feel, but during those warm sunny days I know that Autumn is coming. Yet, in July, it feels so far away that it is hard to imagine driving that same road in the rain. Later in November, it seems equally like a dream to remember driving with the windows rolled down and bright sun at 7pm in the evening. I've spent 100% of my life in Oregon's annual cycle of wet, sloppy, winters and warm summers. You'd think I would have these natural, repeated, changes clearly set in my mind.... but I don't.

In a similar way, we find ourselves in different seasons of life. Some feel warm, dry, and bright. Especially at the start of those seasons, it is exciting to see new things sprouting up around us. Blossoms everywhere are not only beautiful but carry the promise of fruit later on. God is clearly good and doing big things! Yay God!

Then winter comes. Dark, cold, uncomfortable... windows rolled up against the driving rain... Winter. ... yay God?

There are two things I invite you to think on. First is an observation. The second one is a tool to use on dark and foggy nights... those times that you feel discouraged, worn, and sunshine feels so far away that it doesn't even seem real.

The observation.
Winter may not be comfortable, but it is a season of rest and hidden growth. It's the soaking winter rain (and snow) that builds up a store of water for the next growing season. Without the Lord's provision that comes from those dark clouds, there is not fruit in the next year. For deer, their gestation is through the winter months. There IS new life being carried deep, hidden, and safe during the dark season... soft spotted fawns will be birthed when the days are warm again. You can choose to be thankful for the season of rest, restoration, and hidden growth that is happening through the winter months. New, tender, life is all around you, but it is hidden, protected and safe.

The tool.
When your life feels like winter and warm days are a vague dream, speak simple truths. Speak them out loud. When you speak it out, it is easier to believe yourself, others may be encouraged and the enemy will be discouraged!

Here are a couple truths rooted in Scripture to get you going.

I am a child of God!
John 1:12 - "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:"

God will sustain me.
Psalm 3:2-6 Many are saying of me, "God will not deliver him." But you, Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. I call out to the Lord, and He answers me from His holy mountain. I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.

I can come to God in confidence.
Ephesians 3:12 "in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him."

I have victory and hope because of Jesus. I have put my trust in Him.
Romans 8:31-34 "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us."

Finally, I'll suggest a short, simple, prayer that you can remember in your darkest moment.

Pray with me... out loud. "Jesus, I am loved. Help me to love."

John 3:16 - For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
John 13:34 - A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

Victory in Christ is experienced as we walk in His truth and His love. Speak the truth out loud... so you can hear it. The people around you can hear it. You'll find it encouraging on your darkest day.

Soon, you'll love the rhythm of the wipers on your windshield as they remind you how the Lord is providing for a bountiful harvest in the coming season.