Provoke your season

Today is the last day of summer vacation, and the new school year begins tomorrow, in principle. Back to school, back to work for most, back to jackets and soon to winter coats; the casual ease of summer, open sandals, and relaxed dressing are coming to an end; it's a new season. A new season not chosen but imposed, imposed by a schedule that doesn't depend on us, by the school curriculum, the company calendar, the weather, and we must submit to it.

This change of seasons in the natural world is a fitting opportunity and reminder for us to take stock of where we stand with God. Is it sunny or is it cooler; is it the season for open sandals, casual ease, and beach lounging, or are we properly clothed and girded to withstand the rigors of life in a fallen world? It is a reminder that things change, even in the spirit, and we may have lost some of our spark from our time of conversion, or lost some of our passion for God, or… and it is time to move on to another season.

Now, it is not said that spiritual seasons must necessarily follow the dictates of circumstances or weaknesses of human nature. They can be brought about by an act of our will in submission to the Holy Spirit. But how do you bring about your season?

1. First, you need to take stock and see where you are. Be scrupulously honest because you have nothing to prove to anyone; it's between you and God. Are you where you need to be or 'could do better'?
2. Second, determine the cause, not the person, because you alone are responsible for your life, and while you are at it if you have something against someone it is time to forgive and take responsibility; determining the cause therefore means seeing what thoughts, words, behaviors or attitudes have brought you to where you are today.
3. Third, repent and renounce it. The Bible tells us that he who hides his sin will not prosper, and many are unhappy because they refuse to acknowledge their sins and repent, thus building a wall between themselves and God.
4. Fourth, seek the Lord, as King Asa did; and write down the changes you need to make to get from where you are to where you need to go. Write them down, including things God has shown you in the past that you were unwilling to do for fear of humiliating yourself, losing face, etc.
5. Fifth, make a firm decision to move on, set specific goals, surround yourself with people to whom you hold yourself accountable, who will encourage you but also correct you when necessary. Then pray for divine guidance and get to work.

As you move forward you will see changes because unlike the seasons in nature over which you have no control, the season of good can be brought about by your submission, obedience, dedication and prayer.

Shalom!