When summer gives way to fall, the world becomes a breathtaking canvas of gold, crimson, and amber. We watch as trees release their leaves, one by one, letting them fall to the earth below. Some find this change invigorating; others find it a bit sad to see the trees lose their leaves.
But as days shorten and temperatures cool, trees do this to prepare for winter.
Redirecting energy inward, trees seal off the vessels that carry nutrients to and from each leaf, protecting themselves from water loss and damage during the winter. This is God’s excellent design.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us:
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens…” (NIV)
Just as trees surrender their leaves in the autumn so they can survive—and thrive—through the winter, we are also invited to let go of things that keeps us from experiencing the abundant life God offers in different seasons.
“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” John 12:24 (NASB)
This inner work of surrender may be challenging at times. The fruit we long for may not be immediately visible. But in the kingdom of God, surrender is the beginning of transformation.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.” Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
Are there things you need to let go of in this season? Old habits, unhealthy expectations, and the weight of constant doing? What is God inviting you to tend to beneath the surface and surrender to Him?
“Behold, I am making all things new.” Revelation 21:5 (ESV)
Just like the tree, you are not losing yourself in this process—you are preparing for renewal. The same God who designed the rhythms of creation designed your soul for seasons, too.
Whether you’re in a season of release, quiet, or restoration, take heart:
God is at work in your beautiful surrender.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” Psalm 32:8 (NIV)
“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” Philippians 3: 10-12 (NIV)
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3: 17-18
Mercy Multiplied’s Keys to Freedom resources can help you enjoy more of the freedom Christ offers.