The Beauty of Spring - The Crosswalk Devotional - March 20
The Beauty of Spring
By Vivian Bricker
Bible Reading:
“When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring” (Proverbs 16:15).
Spring is a time of new beginnings. When I was younger, it reminded me that the endless days of darkness were behind me. As someone who struggles with depression, spring brings a renewed sense of hope. It helps me feel more positive about life and breaks the cycle of staying inside, hiding from the world, and feeling empty.
When spring arrives, we are greeted by blooming flowers and the warm sun on our faces. Many springs have filled my heart with joy and given me a fresh start emotionally. There is something about winter’s darkness that brings dread, yet spring ushers in hope and joy. You may have experienced this too; spring has a way of leading our hearts toward warmth, tranquility, and happiness.
A few years ago, I began searching for subtle signs of spring even during the winter months. On walks, I would look for the tiniest flower bud or a green vine stretching quietly in the shadows. Without fail, God would reveal a small sign of what was coming. Even the smallest glimpse gave me hope for happier, warmer, longer days ahead. The frigid season was passing, and spring was on its way.
Spring feels especially beautiful after winter because it restores our view of the world’s beauty. During winter, nature lies dormant; in spring, it awakens and flourishes once again.
Spring is not a season to overlook, even if it stirs up our allergies. Instead, we can rejoice in it and give God glory for the fresh start we have in Him. Just as the earth returns to life, we can experience renewal too, especially if winter has been a difficult season for us.
If winter was hard, we need to be honest with ourselves without condemning our struggles. Some seasons are heavier than others. Yet we can hold onto the promise that spring will come. Some years it may feel delayed, but it will arrive. And when it does, we can rejoice and praise the Lord with hopeful hearts.
Intersecting Faith & Life:
The Bible tells us, “When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring” (Proverbs 16:15). In biblical times, retaining a king’s favor was vital. His disfavor could result in death, but his approval meant protection and preservation.
Likewise, a rain cloud in spring is a blessing. It nourishes the plants and flowers, sustaining their growth. In the same way, a king’s joy brought life to his people. The proverb reminds us that favor and blessing produce renewal, just as spring rain revives the earth.
Take special notice of spring this year and allow it to warm your soul. Winter has passed, along with its bitter cold and long, dark days. The sorrow and mental heaviness that sometimes accompany those months can begin to lift as well. Spring carries the promise of new life, renewed joy, and restored hope. Praise the Lord for the beauty and life He brings through this season.
What is your favorite thing about the season of spring? What are a few ways you can give God praise for the beauty of spring?
Further Reading:
Hosea 6:3
Isaiah 61:11
2 Corinthians 5:17
Join the conversation! Share how today’s devotional encouraged or challenged you in your walk with Christ.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/RomoloTavani
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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!
