All Things New

As the spring season begins here in Texas, I enjoy seeing how nature is being reenergized. The squirrels at the park are chasing one another and playing, the birds are returning from their migration, wildflowers are blooming, and I saw a little family of baby ducklings at the pond near me -- it just seems like everywhere I look, I see signs of new life.  

As I think about Easter arriving soon, the thought of new life carries a heavier weight. In part, because of the new life Jesus offered me at the cross; and in part because of the sure hope that His resurrection gives us for believers who have already gone Home to Him. In both scenarios, I look forward to the eternal new life that God gave us through faith in His Son.  

But I have to ask myself, am I fully living in the power and strength of that new life? Or have I been spiritually lulled to sleep by the slower pace of a winter season?

Do I greet each day with excitement for God's divine opportunities of purpose through me? Or do I wake up already fatigued by my earthly to-do list before I even begin the day?

If you're not sure, I want to make a suggestion to you as you enter this new season (and rest assured, I'm telling myself the same thing!) -- just before spring is a great time to prune, both in nature and in our own personal lives.

Evaluate your current life season. Are there things that need to be trimmed out in order to make room for new life? Ask God (who is the Master Gardner) to give you wisdom in the pruning process because even though it can be painful, it can also be productive. Let's all be willing to endure His pruning now in anticipation of the spiritual fruit He can produce through His Holy Spirit in us! 

Sometimes being God's mighty warrior means facing hard things head-on in His strength. Don't allow fear to deter you from what God has planned for you. God is pruning some areas in my own life and preparing me for new things He has called me to do this year. Be sure to check back on April 1st as we announce one of those new things (and no, we're not joking! 😉)