Yesterday, I went on a run in our neighborhood shortly before the sun set. I noticed the beautiful conglomerate of trees lining our street in a different way. Two of the trees have transformed to the vibrant reds and oranges of fall. One tree, however, has yet to join the seasonal painting party. But it’s not supposed to. It’s not designed to. 

It is a strong, healthy magnolia tree. While it may not capitalize the fall, come spring and summer, it rises to the occasion. When the autumn reds and oranges have long since faded, the magnolia stands tall and proud with elegant white blooms.

And yet, these trees share the same street. They are neighbors. They dwell together. They do not compete. They simply observe the different seasons of nature.

This beautiful sight caused me to dwell on the seasons of life. We are not all built to bloom at the same time, nor were we designed to, and that is just fine. We experience our own unique chapters. While others around us may be hitting their full stride, we may struggle to simply stand. But we will not stay there. Soon, our season will begin, and before we know it, someone else will follow our success.

Life is a fleeting transition. Seasons come and seasons go. Whether you are blooming or falling, do not compare yourself to someone else. Do not steal others’ moments, and do not allow them to dampen yours. Do remember, however, that God faithfully stands with you through every season. Weeping may send us to sleep, but joy comes in the morning. The wise man Solomon penned, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, NIV).

You may not be enjoying (or thriving) this season, but my friend, take heart. Your time is coming.

 
Jacob Hawk, PhD, serves the Prestoncrest Church of Christ in Dallas, Texas. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Bible and Ministry from Harding University and a Ph.D. in Christian Leadership from Liberty University. He is the author of five books: Image of the Invisible God; The Hawk’s Nest: 90 Lessons for Faith and Family; When Mountains Won’t Move: How to Survive a Struggling Faith; Blinded by Darkness; and BOLD: Statements that Changed History. Jacob produces a weekly podcast, Road Talk: Navigating Your Journey, which airs weekly out of his office. To follow along with Jacob Hawk’s writing and speaking ministry, visit www.drjacobhawk.com