I pulled today’s declaration from the Old Testament Bible verses that were used as lyrics in a 1960s tune called “Turn! Turn! Turn!” Can you name—not that tune, but those verses? (Answer: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

With 2021 drawing to a close and 2022 waiting in the wings, ‘Tis the season to declare that seasons come and go by God’s design. Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, God is working out his purposes according to his calendar.

Some seasons don’t make sense. What good purpose could there possibly be in seasons of hatred or war? Why can’t we always experience seasons of healing and building up? I’d much prefer seasons of laughter over tears. I definitely choose welcoming a baby into this world over releasing a dying loved one into the next world.

But just as this week’s declaration says, God perfectly times each season with purpose.

My mom died the day after Christmas two years ago. I know now that the timing of her death was perfectly established by God to avoid the isolation and loneliness of Covid. To our joy and delight, our granddaughter—who closely resembles her great grandma—was born nine months after my mom died. That little granddaughter of mine was perfectly timed by God with purpose.

I don’t know what season you’re in right now, but I do know God is working out his purposes according to his calendar of events for your life. I remember when my husband and I had to cut back the hours of a beloved employee. I’d prayed so hard for the Lord to give her another opportunity and he did! But instead of taking the full-time job I found for her, she decided to stay on part time with us until her retirement. She said, “At my age, the one thing you never have enough of is time.” She realized that she had all the material things she needed, so she didn’t need the income of full-time employment. Part-time work gave her more of what she needed—time.

To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven. God knows where you are and what you need. He will guide your every step in 2022 if you will let him lead you.

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