Spring is here and most of us are ready for some warm weather and the change from winter to spring. The dogwoods are in bloom, tulips look beautiful, and I'm ready to put on a pair of shorts and a t-shirt.
As I think about the change in seasons and how much enjoyment this brings, I can't help but think about spiritual seasons. Spiritually, I wonder how many of us are stuck in winter and can't seem to find the beauty of spring.
In the book, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, C.S. Lewis uses this phrase: "... always winter but never Christmas." Spiritually, do you ever find yourself in this situation? In other words, do you find yourself locked in the cold of winter but never experiencing the joy of Christmas? Never experiencing the joy of knowing Christ? Never experiencing the fullness in life that only comes from a relationship with God? For some, it's always just a spiritual winter. I hope this doesn't describe you because this is certainly a miserable position in life.
If you are spiritually stuck in winter, here are three ways to get to a joyous spring:
Release control of your life to God: Recognize that if you try to keep the control of your life you set yourself up for a life of spiritual winter.
Spend time reading the Bible: You can't move into a new season if you have no way to listen to God.
Cultivate your prayer time: Communication is a two-way street. Just as you need to listen to God, you need to spend time talking with Him. Tell God how you're feeling and ask for spiritual direction. Prayer is powerful.
As spring is upon us, will you consider your spiritual season today? As the flowers bloom this spring I am reminded of the verse in Luke , Ch. 12, that says this: "And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you."
Knowing that God cares even for the flowers, won't you allow Him to direct your life? Develop your relationship with God and watch your spiritual life move from a cold, drab winter to a warm and exciting spring.