How Reflection Can Help Move You Forward Into a New Season
Autumn’s chill has arrived in my part of the world, and each day on my drive home I can just make out the subtle change of leaves as they begin to turn gold. Its only small spots now, the parts of the tree that get the most sun, but I know soon enough they will be encompassed in swaths of color and brighten up the whole neighborhood with their glow.
When the seasons begin to change, I always look ahead easily and expectantly. In the Fall, that means that candles are lit each night, my recipes for soup are scattered across the counter along side magazines filled with decorating ideas, and most Saturday mornings you will find me with a pumpkin spice latte in my hand while I jot down plans for the months ahead. I love to set goals, to make lists and to imagine how our family will make the most of what’s coming next.
In recent years however, I’ve also learned how important it is to pause and look back too. When I only rush into what’s new, I feel life is always in a hurry. I also miss opportunities to offer up thanksgiving to God for the gifts He’s already poured out. But when I take time to reflect, I can move forward with deeper purpose, and set an intention in my own heart to remember to worship in all areas of my life.
Before you burst fully into Fall, consider God’s presence in the season that we leave behind. These questions, inspired by the Christian tradition of the Daily Examen (which began in the 16th century), can help you as you journal and pray.
How have I seen God’s presence in the previous weeks and months?
Where has he guided you, convicted you, and been active in your life? Ask God to help you see your circumstances, your joys and sorrows of the past season through His eyes. Ask Him to help you trust His plans and purposes.
Give Thanks for all the gifts God has given.
Take time to write them out- the practical provision, the fun adventures and even mishaps. Recount areas of personal growth and the ways you see your children developing. Give Praise to God for His presence in hard t times too, and for His promise to always be with you.
Look Back on the Season.
What did it hold? Were expectations fulfilled? What was the state of your heart like? What about the environment of your home? What did you delight in and love? What traditions did you enjoy together and what goals did you accomplish? Ask God to reveal your shortcomings, and then confess them to Him and ask for His help! Seek to understand what worked well for your family, and what didn’t and make note of what you’d like to change next year.
Look forward to the season to come with hope.
Ask God to be present in all your plans-equipping you, guiding you, and bearing beauty and light into all you do in the season ahead!
May your time with Him, giving thanks for all He has done, inspire your hearts to embrace this season to the fullest,
Kristen
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