Seasons of Praise

Let the fields and their crops burst out with joy! Let the trees of the forest sing for joy before the Lord , for he is coming! He is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with justice, and the nations with his truth. (Psalms 96:12‭-‬13)

I remember early in my walk, there were many days that I found myself sitting in my 1991 Toyota Corolla crying because things were extremely difficult. Parenting, financial struggles, a failing marriage, and strained family relationships... seriously, it was only by the grace of God that I made it through all that I have, and still have joy.

Anyway, I would sit in my car, always with a view of trees in front of me. I'm not sure why I chose that setting as my go to place to release, but now being almost 2 decades later, I love the reminder is etched in my heart. I would get swept up staring at the trees as they swayed from left to right. It's like they heard worship music in the wind, and danced as they praised the Lord. Seeing that always brought me a huge sense of peace, and it still does when I slow down to marvel at how even nature brings glory to His name.

Think about how much trees endure from season to season. They sprout with hopeful and strong beginnings, and then face exposure to a barrage of extreme environmental elements like heat, rain, wind, and drought. If that's not enough, they also go through major physical and core shifts and changes of which they have no control over, followed by moments where cold harsh circumstances surrounding them leaves an impression that brings feelings of discouraging loss and barren vulnerability. However, with each season, they continue to flourish. And even though we don't always see or recognize it, they never stop growing.

When I pause to reflect on life, I believe it's the reason why they praise God as beautifully as they do. Their sways of adoration and the rustling sounds of their voices are how they bring praises to the One Who helps them through every season they are in. Should it really be any different for us? That's a good question to examine our hearts with.

Think about the season you are currently in right now. Remember that God values you more than the trees, and if He provides for them through everything they endure helping them to stand firm... just think of what He is doing for you. So, right now, in the midst...just praise Him. Sing, dance, pray, whatever you chose...praise God for taking care of all your needs in ways that only He can do. Listen, seasons may change, but God's love and promises for you never do. And THAT is something to remain hopeful in. Be blessed, Y'all!🦋

Let's Pray together...

Lord, help us to praise You in every season. Help us to stand firm where you have planted us, and trust that we can depend on Your loving protection to keep us as we navigate through the unpredictability of life. Seasons change, but you remain the same faithful Father that loves us deeply and completely. We thank you for being all we truly need to endure. In Jesus Christ's name, we honor You. Amen.