Growth in Winter WRITTEN BY KIRK ALBRECHT
We are headed into winter. Short days, long
Yet God is at work in us, “to will and to work
nights. Cold. Snow. Life becomes quite
for his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13). If
different as we stay home more, wrap up in
we are rooted in our Savior, then he will
blankets, and huddle over a warm drink.
produce growth. If we remain connected to the vine, the vinedresser will have his way
Leaves are gone from trees. No more grass
with us (John 15), even if on the outside it
cutting for months. Flowers aren’t in bloom. It
seems not much is happening.
seems that winter also means little growth in nature. At least not what we can see.
What do we do when things seem barren? Here are some ideas:
But other forces are at work to not completely snuff out life during winter. God has so
Lean into the Scriptures. We always find
designed nature that even though your grass
good when we spend time in God’s word.
may not be any longer or thicker for 5
Spend time with people. Isolation when
months, be sure it will get green and lush
things are tough is not a recipe for
when the warmth of spring comes and the
growth. We are made for community.
rains fall.
Cultivate joy. Find pleasure in the good you see – look for it.
As disciples of Jesus, we may experience
Set your mind. Our will + the Holy Spirit
winter in our lives, what one writer called “the
gives endurance in the downs of life.
dark night of the soul.” It seems that we just aren’t bearing a lot of fruit. Life is difficult.
Growth gives Jesus glory. Growth in our lives
Energy is lacking. Desires for doing the will of
is God’s concern. Stay the course and see
God wane.
what God can do even in winter!
Student Ministry
February 4-6, 2022
