As Sure As the Weather Changes

I believe July is one of the most anticipated months of the year. Besides December, which brings us Christmas, July is one of the most favorite months of the year. Then again, these stats are according to young people between the ages of 10 to 24. When asked why they favored July over 10 other months, (December excluded), the survey participants pointed to summer vacations, being out of school (or college), swimming, the 4th of July, and a more active outdoors environment. 
 
Now when the survey was offered to adults whose ages were 25 to 40, the answers took an interesting twist. December was still the number one answer due to the holidays; but, the second was October. The reason for this was that the climate was much more comfortable for workers whose jobs were outdoors. Furthermore, the cost of home utilities was less due to the nicer weather. Some people said that they enjoyed the color change of the foliage and the outdoor temperature was much more pleasant than the harsh heat of summer or the frigid cold of winter. One aspect that I found interesting was that some people favored October because it was when the Christmas shopping season was beginning to accelerate.
 
Regardless of perspectives and opinions, the one thing we can count on is that time will continue to go. As long as God tarries and he give us breath, the next month and next season will come. I would contend that the most important thing about the changing of months, seasons, and time is that God is the same through them all. It doesn’t matter if you are a teenager, swimming at the lake or the beach during summer vacation, or a retired adult enjoying the autumn breeze as you walk through the park, the seasons do come and go as do the aspects of life. In Ecclesiastes 3:1, it tells us that;
 
To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven (NKJV)
 
It continues by listing some of the significant issues in life and how they come and go, in a random fashion, throughout history and in our time of our lives. The writer points to the times for planting and harvesting, to tear down and to build up, to be quiet and to speak, and a time to live and to die are just a few things he mentions to illustrate that both, time, and what it holds, will change in our lives.
 
To some, this might be a frightening concept or an uncomfortable idea; especially if the change brings difficulties or troubles. This is why so many people live with anxiety issues and dysfunctions. It is all the more reason to place our faith, trust, and hope in Jesus Christ so that when the unfavorable times and seasons come, we will have the assurance that God is there, working on our behalf. The Bible promises that he will be with us when we face adversity and hardships. One of my favorites comes from Isaiah 41:10, saying;
 
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Another is in the New Testament from John 16:33 when Jesus says;
 
“ I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”