Today is the first day of spring in the northern half of the world. If you live in Australia, its the first day of autumnthe vernal equinox in the northern hemisphere and the autumnal equinox in the southern hemisphere. Today, the sun shines directly on the equator, and the hours of daylight and nighttime are nearly equal around the world.
New seasons are important for many people. Some count down the day because of what they hope the new season will bring. Perhaps youve been marking off a calendar for spring in Wisconsin to signal the end of another winter. Or maybe you live in Melbourne, and you cant wait for autumn to bring relief from the Australian sun.
We also go through seasons of life that dont have to do with the weather. The author of Ecclesiastes told us there is a season for every activity under the suna time appointed by God during which we live our lives (3:111).
Moses spoke of a new season in his life after he led the people of Israel through the wilderness (Deuteronomy 31:2), and he had to give up his leadership role to Joshua. And Paul faced a lonely season while he was under house arrest in Romeasking for visitors but realizing that God was at my side (2 Timothy 4:17).
Regardless of the season of life, lets give thanks to God for His greatness, His help, and His companionship.
INSIGHT
Many believe King Solomon wrote the book of Ecclesiastes because the author refers to himself as the son of David, king in Jerusalem (1:1) and king over Israel in Jerusalem (v. 12) who had more wisdom and possessions than anyone who has ruled over Jerusalem before [him] (v. 16; 2:7). The books purpose seems clear: It defends the life of faith in a generous God by pointing to the grimness of the alternative (Michael Easton, Ecclesiastes). Ecclesiastes underscores the necessity and desirability of following God in a fallen and frustrating world today (12:1)no matter our season in life. Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments (v. 13).
What has helped you to understand the wisdom of following God in various seasons of your life?