January 1, 2025
Then God said, “Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs and seasons, and for days and years;”
- Genesis 1: 14 (NKJV)
As we enter a new year, we have an opportunity to open ourselves up to the season God is bringing us into.
Life, like the natural world, flows in seasons. In Canada, for example, there are four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall. Each one brings unique beauty and challenges, reminding us of the rhythm God has established for life itself. As believers, we are called to recognize and navigate these seasons, not only the physical ones but those of our spiritual journey. A new year is a perfect time to remind ourselves of this truth and align our lives with it as well.
In Genesis 1:14, even before man was created, God declared, “Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens… for signs and seasons, and for days and years”. Seasons were part of God’s divine order from the beginning, marking time and signaling changes long before humans walked the earth. In understanding and respecting these seasons, we align ourselves with His divine design.
God has a purpose for each season of our lives. Joseph’s journey is a powerful example. In Genesis 37, God gave Joseph a vision of his future greatness. However, this vision did not immediately come to fruition. Joseph endured betrayal, slavery, imprisonment, and hardship before stepping into his God-ordained role. Yet when the appointed time came, Joseph understood God’s purpose saying, “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive”. – Genesis 50:20 (NKJV).
Like Joseph, we also have purpose in our seasons. Seasons of hardship may build resilience, while seasons of joy may foster gratitude. Every season offers an opportunity to grow closer to God and serve others according to His will.
Recognizing the season we are in brings clarity to our actions. The sons of Issachar are praised in scripture because they “had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do” - 1 Chronicles 12:32 (NKJV). In the same way, when we discern God’s timing in our lives, we can better understand what He’s calling for us.
Just as we dress warmly in winter, we must “dress” our lives appropriately for each season God brings. Without this awareness, we risk missing the opportunities He’s set before us. Happy, blessed New Year.
Song
New Season Song by Israel Houghton and The Newbreed
Prayer - Heavenly Father, thank You for the seasons You bring into my life and for the gift of this new year. Help me to discern the times and align my actions with Your purpose. Strengthen me in challenges, fill me with gratitude in blessings, and guide me to grow closer to You. Let this year be one of growth and fulfillment in Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.