Changing Seasons

A Message from Anointed Messenger

² He replied, “When evening comes, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,’ ³ and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times.^[a]

Matthew 16:2-3 NIV

Recently the weather has been changing so much it's hard to know how to plan for it. I know people often complain about changing weather patterns. There's a common saying "If you don't like the weather, wait a few minutes and it'll change." Lately that seems to be a reality. The outfit my friend wore to church was comfortable when she arrived, but by the time service was over she was cold due to the changing weather.

sweetclipart.com

With these fluctuating weather patterns I often see people wearing the wrong attire. Some are dressed for the weather from the previous day, not expecting such a big shift in a day. Many are dressed by outward appearances; if it looks sunny, they assume it is warm. Others are dressed according to the calendar; wearing what has worked well in past seasons. There are those who trust weather forecasters who don't always get it right.

I've certainly made some outfit mistakes but it taught me lessons. I have to check the weather often in order to be dressed appropriately. I also have to prepare for sudden shifts. I need to bring a sweater or jacket; or wear one that can be taken off. I recognize it is the same with spiritual seasons.

These are times in which we must be very sensitive to changes in the spiritual atmosphere. We cannot rely on simply doing what has worked in the past. We cannot assume that yesterday's instructions will also apply today. We cannot rely on the words of men, but must hear from God. We must seek God often and we must stay open to changes in direction.

If you've ever worn the wrong outfit for the weather, you know how uncomfortable that can be. Let's not make the same mistake spiritually. Let us be fully dressed, wearing the full armor of God in case there are unexpected spiritual attacks. We don't know what the day holds so let us clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. We dare not go out without being covered in prayer, and let us not forget to put on love. [Colossians 3:12-14]

 

Dear Lord
We understand that seasons change and we are in fluctuating times. Help us stay sensitive to Your voice and current with Your plan. Remind us to seek You constantly, and alert us when we miss Your instructions. Give us what we need so we can be prepared for sudden shifts. We are grateful because regardless of the changing times, You are the same and Your love never fails.

 

Jeremy Camp - My God