When the Fall and Winter Seasons Feel Heavy - The Crosswalk Devotional - November 13
When the Fall and Winter Seasons Feel Heavy
By Vivian Bricker
Bible Reading:
“When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” - Psalm 94:19
Autumn is a season of beautiful leaves, crisp air, and an endless array of pumpkin-themed sweets. For many, the autumn season rings in fond memories and excitement for the upcoming holidays. However, for some, the colder months loom like a dark cloud.
At one time, I, too, loved the autumn season as I was excited to see the leaves change, go trick-or-treating, and get ready for the start of the holiday season. However, each fall has a heaviness over it ever since my mom passed away a few autumns ago. Ever since then, it has been difficult to associate these months with anything else.
Fall can be heavy, and it can be overwhelming at times for many of us. Perhaps, like me, you experienced a traumatic life event that clouds each autumn with sad memories. Or, perhaps you experience seasonal depression during the fall and winter - something that is common among many people. The days get shorter, and we’re left in darkness for much longer. Know that whatever it may be that is bringing heaviness into your life during this time, you are not alone.
If you feel that fall is a difficult season to navigate, it is essential to talk with God as well as loved ones about what you are feeling. Reaching out to medical professionals can also be helpful if you ever have concerns about depression, anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm. Even if you only have minimal concerns around any of these things, be proactive about addressing them with your primary care provider.
Intersecting Faith & Life:
The Bible tells us, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy” (Psalm 94:19). Although fall can bring much sorrow into our hearts, God can also bring joy into them. Whenever our hearts are full of anxiety, sorrow, or pain, we need to go to the Lord in prayer. God's consolation will bring us joy.
God understands the pain we are feeling and how certain seasons can cause painful memories or depression to resurface. Despite the pain and heartbreak we are experiencing, God can help us to see the light of life again. Even if you think you will never enjoy fall again or you won't be able to walk into autumn without pain, know that it is more than possible. All things are possible with God (Matthew 19:26).
The heaviness may continue; however, try to allow God to heal your weary heart. God may provide healing through your family, friends, or spouse. Make new memories with those around you and treasure the memories of the past. We might always feel a bit heavy when fall comes around, but sometimes this heaviness can keep our loved ones close to our hearts.
Why does this season feel especially heavy for you? How can you bring those things to God? He longs to bring joy to a weary heart - all you need to do is reach for Him.
Further Reading:
Psalm 34:17-18
Zephaniah 3:17
Joshua 1:9
How did today’s devotional speak to you? Share your thoughts in the Crosswalk Devotional discussion.
Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Riccardo Mion
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Listen to the Jesus Calling Podcast!
Welcome to this special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, inspired by the topical themes from Sarah Young’s seasonal prayer devotional Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season. Today, we are featuring guests who speak to themes that all of us might be experiencing in this season of winter. As the days grow shorter and the night longer, we are offered a rare gift: permission to stop. This season can be a challenging time for many, and if you are struggling with low spirits, please know you are not alone, and help is available. This episode is an opportunity to honor your weariness, to resist the urge to rush, and to discover the profound healing that happens when we simply let ourselves rest in the stillness. If you like what you hear, be sure to follow Jesus Calling on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
