There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. ECCLESIASTES 3:1 

Have you ever wanted to press fast-forward on the hard times to get to the good times? Every difficulty has an opportunity to trust God and know Him more and experience His stability, peace, and joy in the middle of it. Is it wrong to want a different season in your life, like one with a slower pace or fewer trials? Not at all. You can absolutely bring that to the Lord.  

My husband and I recently discussed wanting to expand our family, but if he has to go through radiation, that may not happen for a long time, if ever. Right now, it does seem like God is saying “no” or “not yet.” And while that is hard for me, I need to trust that. Thankfully, He says He will walk with me through it all, and there is grace in the process of surrender. I have no idea what the future holds with our family, but trusting that God’s timing and plans are hands down the best helps me be present in the season I am in right now. 

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” We must remember that while seasons change, God stays the same. He keeps His promises, and our various circumstances are not caused by accident! God orchestrates or allows everything because there is purpose behind it all. I hope that encourages you like it does me to suffer well, endure well, and even rejoice in the Lord in it all! 

Father God, Your ways are far greater and better than I can ever plan for myself. There is so much freedom in that knowledge! Looking back on my life, I can see You have only been good and always have been with me, even in the most unsure, scary, and unnerving times. Thank You. Amen 

REFLECT: Is there something you wish was happening right now? Do you trust that there is a season for every activity under the heavens and that God has not forgotten you? 

This is an excerpt from Living Open-Handed: Devotions for Surrendering Control and Finding Joy in the Unexpected by Shruthi Parker – a devotional now available on DaySpring.com. Shop all books, journals, and devotions from DaySpring here.