Let the SON Shine

June is such a pivotal month of the year when the temperature of the climate begins to go from comfortable to hot. The first day of summer is around June 21st. According to the National Weather Service, that’s about the time the summer solstice marks the longest day of the year. It is also when the sun is at its highest point in the sky and the Earth’s tilt toward the sun is at its maximum in the Northern Hemisphere.
One would tend to believe that this would be when the earth is closest to the sun, as well. Strangely enough, nothing could be further from the truth. It may surprise many that the sun is closest to the earth during the winter; January 4, 2025 to be exact. It seems a bit contrary that it is the cold time of the year; but, we are closest to the sun.
Such is true for many of us that when we are in the harshest and coldest times of our lives, we draw close to the Son; that is, the Son of God. It is only natural that when things are going well and life is enjoyable, we may tend to relax in our relationship with the Lord. When we experience seasons of good fortune and prosperity, people are prone to feel at-ease, having less concerns to bring before God.
Then there are the times when the conditions of life get a little icy and the coldness of the world finds its way in. these are the times when we tend to draw close to a source in which we find consolation and security. In the life of the believer, it is our Lord that we turn to for comfort.
For this reason, we are encouraged to always stay close to the Lord in order to draw comfort and reassurance for our lives. Like a good father who watches over his children, God wants us close to him. In Psalm 73:27-28, the writer says;
27 Those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you. 28 But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.
It pays to stay close to the Lord, whether times are good or bad. I believe one way we can stay close when times are good is to praise and give thanks to the Lord for times of prosperity and good fortune. The same stands true when times are bad. We tend to draw close to God when there is trouble; but, give thanks and praise him for such opportunity. It is challenges and trials that brings growth and strengthens our faith. In James 1:2-4, is says;
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking
This works hand-in-hand with the concept found in 2 Timothy 4:2, as it draws attention to speaking the Good News, regardless if times are good or not. It says;
2 proclaim the message; be persistent whether the time is favorable or unfavorable; convince, rebuke, and encourage with the utmost patience in teaching.
So, whether times are good or bad, we need to be close to the Lord; not just to stay close to the comfort and security he provides, but to be ready to do what needs to be done to further the Kingdom of God.