God created nature as a beautiful way to teach us about change
It’s sometimes tempting to see the fallen leaves of autumn as a sign that something has ended. But in reality, God designed the leaves to fall to make way for the new growth of spring. Our spiritual lives follow a similar pattern.
We may hold onto things that provide no value and prevent us from growing as Christians. God invites us to release those things to Him: old habits, unhealthy relationships, bitterness, fear, regret, etc. Sometimes we hold onto things we think are a life-preserver, but they’re actually an anvil dragging us under. Yet, Scripture reminds us that God works through change to accomplish something new within us.
The apostle Paul writes in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” [NIV]
Embracing spirit-led change allows us as Christians to understand and follow God’s will for our lives.
2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” [NIV]
New life comes after the old has gone
As the leaves begin to change and fall away, consider asking yourself:
- Am I giving God all of me or am I hindering my relationship with Him by hanging onto things that don’t offer growth?
- What are the habits or attitudes that I need to let go of to experience spiritual growth?
A change for the better
We can trust that God is working in every season of our lives. He doesn’t ask us to let go of things because He wants to leave us feeling empty; instead, He invites us to release what doesn’t serve His purpose so He can fill us with something better.
The leaves that fall today are preparing for tomorrow’s growth. Place your trust in God, and He will turn an ending into a beautiful beginning. He is in autumn’s leaves and spring’s buds.
