By Tina Reed
5-minute read
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (CSB) tells us:
“There is an occasion for everything,
and a time for every activity under heaven:
a time to give birth and a time to die;
a time to plant and a time to uproot;
a time to kill and a time to heal;
a time to tear down and a time to build;
a time to weep and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn and a time to dance;
a time to throw stones and a time to gather stones;
a time to embrace and a time to avoid embracing;
a time to search and a time to count as lost;
a time to keep and a time to throw away;
a time to tear and a time to sew;
a time to be silent and a time to speak;
a time to love and a time to hate;
a time for war and a time for peace.”
What does this mean for us today?
Life is full of different seasons, each bringing its own set of challenges and joys. But often, we struggle to find meaning in the season we’re in. We feel overwhelmed, questioning our purpose, our productivity, and God’s plan. How can we navigate these times of uncertainty? Where can we find hope when our efforts seem futile?
The truth is, there is a season for everything under heaven, and God is sovereign over each of them. But we don’t always see the bigger picture. We ask, “Why is this happening?” or “How long will this last?” The exhaustion of daily life can make us feel as if we’re treading water, barely staying afloat. Yet, in all these moments—whether in joy or suffering—God is working for our good.
Finding Purpose in Every Season
In every season, God has a purpose. Ecclesiastes 3:11 reminds us that He “has made everything appropriate in its time.” This means that nothing in our lives is random or wasted. Even the hardships we face are part of God’s plan to mold us and grow our faith. As believers, we can rest in the fact that God is using every moment to shape us into the image of Christ.
It’s easy to feel like we’re aimlessly wandering through life, but the work we do matters. Whether it’s a time of weeping or laughing, mourning or dancing, God is guiding us through it all. Our efforts, though often imperfect, are not in vain. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 15:58 that “your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” God has placed us where we are to bring Him glory in every season.
The Gift of Grace in Our Work
God calls us to enjoy the life He has given us, even in seasons of struggle. Ecclesiastes 3:13 says, “It is also the gift of God whenever anyone eats, drinks, and enjoys all his efforts.” Our work, our rest, and even our play are gifts from God. He desires us to find joy in them, knowing that all we have is from His hand. But how can we find joy when life feels heavy?
The answer lies in trusting Christ, not ourselves. Our own strength will fail us, but Christ never will. He is the vine, and we are the branches—apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5). But in Him, we have everything we need to endure and thrive, even when the road is hard.
Embracing Weakness to Find Strength
God often teaches us the most through our weaknesses. We may resist this truth, thinking we need to be strong or have everything figured out. But the reality is that God uses our weakness to show us His strength. As James teaches, trials produce perseverance and maturity in our faith (James 1:2-4).
Are you feeling weary in your current season? Take heart! God is not distant or unaware. He sees your struggles, your exhaustion, and your doubts. And He promises to be your strength. When we surrender our plans, our expectations, and our burdens to Him, we can rest in His perfect will. His plans are far better than anything we could imagine.
Living with Eternity in Mind
God’s purposes go beyond the present moment. He calls us to live with eternity in mind, remembering that our time on earth is brief compared to the eternal glory that awaits. This perspective helps us endure with joy, knowing that our present struggles are shaping us for an eternal reward.
So, whatever season you’re in, trust that God is with you. He is sovereign, and nothing happens outside His perfect plan. Whether in suffering or celebration, He is at work for your good and His glory. As Ecclesiastes 2:24 reminds us, “There is nothing better for a person than to eat, drink, and enjoy his work. I have seen that even this is from God’s hand.”
Conclusion: Trust in God’s Sovereignty
No matter the season, God is guiding us, teaching us, and growing us. His sovereignty is our comfort, and His strength is our hope. Trust in Him, and take heart. God has you exactly where He wants you, and He is using every moment to bring you closer to Him. Rest in His love and know that His plans are perfect, even when the road seems hard.
