Growth in Winter

We are headed into winter. Short days, long nights. Cold. Snow. Life becomes quite different as we stay home more, wrap up in blankets, and huddle over a warm drink.

Leaves are gone from trees. No more grass cutting for months. Flowers aren’t in bloom. It seems that winter also means little growth in nature. At least not what we can see.

But other forces are at work to not completely snuff out life during winter. God has so designed nature that even though your grass may not be any longer or thicker for 5 months, be sure it will get green and lush when the warmth of spring comes and the rains fall.

As disciples of Jesus, we may experience winter in our lives, what one writer called “the dark night of the soul.

” It seems that we just aren’t bearing a lot of fruit. Life is difficult. Energy is lacking. Desires for doing the will of God wane.

“to will and to work for his good pleasure.

” (Philippians 2:13). If we are rooted in our Savior, then he will produce growth. If we remain connected to the vine, the vinedresser will have his way with us (John 15), even if on the outside it seems not much is happening.

What do we do when things seem barren? Here are some ideas:

Lean into the Scriptures. We always find good when we spend time in God’s word. Spend time with people. Isolation when things are tough is not a recipe for growth. We are made for community. Cultivate joy. Find pleasure in the good you see – look for it. Set your mind. Our will + the Holy Spirit gives endurance in the downs of life.

Growth gives Jesus glory. Growth in our lives is God’s concern. Stay the course and see what God can do even in winter!