The days are growing shorter, and the temperatures are getting colder. I am one of those who enjoys the colder mornings but likes to feel the warmth of the sunshine as the day goes on. It is during these changing few weeks of the seasons that I am reminded that there is a purpose for every season (Eccl. 3:1-8). Yes, there is a time and a season for every event under heaven. Wisdom is found in knowing the season and carrying out its corresponding responsibility.

After the great flood, one of the promises made to Noah found in Genesis 8:22, we read: “While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, And cold and heat, And summer and winter, And day and night Shall not cease.” The changing seasons provide a time for planting and a time for harvesting what has been planted. There is a time when we eagerly anticipate the coming of spring and a time when we look forward to an occasional “dusting” of snow. As each succeeding season gives way to the next, we marvel at the power and wisdom of God’s creation.

We also need to be assured that there are seasons of our lives, each with its own unique opportunities. Children are young but for a season and we need to seize the day and bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Eph. 6:4). Otherwise, a new season will arise, and they will be unprepared to meet its challenges. While they are young and under our instruction, we must provide examples and direction to help our children handle the changing seasons of life. We all need to realize that the value of a person’s life is not measured by our material possessions or things we accumulate, but by the treasures which we have stored up in heaven (Mt. 6:19-21). One of the best things we can pass on to the next generation is a love for God and leave them an example of faithfulness to Him.