Wise King Solomon tells us in Ecclesiastes 3 that to everything there is a season. The band “The Byrds” may have even made what Solomon said more memorable with their song “Turn! Turn! Turn!

Like many, I tend to find winter the most challenging season. Spring brings new life, summer long sunny days, and autumn has its beautiful colors and crisp air. Winter on the other hand just seems cold, with short days that often feel longer than summer.

While winter does offer some wonder holiday times, I still can’t help but long for a change of season. Which may actually be what is best about winter.

Without winter would I ever be able to truly appreciate spring as new growth blossoms? Without winter would I ever truly be able to appreciate the long sunny days of summer? Without any leaves upon the trees could I ever fully appreciate their colors in autumn?

To be honest with you I have no true understanding of why seasons really exist. Though I may not understand the reasoning behind them, I can trust that God has full understanding of their purpose.

This is true of our seasons of life as well. At times we experience new beginnings, all while others around us are experiencing difficult endings. Some plant seeds, hoping for growth, while others harvest that which has already been sown. There are times of deep mourning, and times of life’s fullest joys.

As wise as King Solomon was, in his writings even in Ecclesiastes, he never fully has answers for our (or his) seasons of life. Still it offers wisdom for our journey, reminding us to simply trust God because while we may not understand all the reasons for our seasons, we can trust that He has full understanding.

“That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this everyone’s duty. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.  - Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 (NLT).