I was looking out my window the other day and saw that that the
trees were covered with snow and ice. They were slightly bent over from the
weight that was on them. As I was looking, I thought about my life over the
past 12 months. It has been a difficult season in my life and ministry. Just
like the trees are stripped of their beauty and weighed down with the snow and
ice of winter, so it feels that God has stripped away from my life confidence,
relationships, and financial security. Spiritual warfare has raged and evil has
fought to destroy.
As I was making this analogy, God brought my thoughts to the lyrics
of the song, "The Heart of Worship". "When the music fades and
all is stripped away.....You search much deeper within... You're
looking into my heart." Just because the trees are stripped of their
beauty does not mean they do not have life in them. We know that in a few
months we will see those signs of life. That is what God is doing in me. While
He has allowed this season of winter, He has been searching deep within me. He
has been looking into my heart. This season has pushed me to depend on Him in a
greater way, to fight the enemy on my knees and seek God for the victory.
I have noticed that some branches have broken off from the trees due
to the weight that was on them. Those branches won't survive. They are not
attached to their life source. Likewise, I cannot break away from my life
source, Jesus. I would die. I cannot make it without the sustaining life and
strength that Jesus provides. Jesus, I am coming back to the heart of worship.
I am weak and poor but I give you my all. Every breath belongs to you. I trust
You.
If you are also in the winter season of your soul, let me encourage
you. Spring is coming. A season of new life and growth is on its way.
Stay connected to the life source. Though it may not feel like it, He is still
working in you. God is concerned about what is deep within your heart. You need
Him. Trust Him. Worship Him for He is good.
