February 1, 2018 – Thursday
Reading
Ecclesiastes 3:1[NRSV] For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven
Reflection
Waiting my turn at the drive-thru window for lunch, a magnolia tree captured my interest. This tree reflected a beginning, an end, and a renewal. Some of the magnolias were almost full bloom, while others had died completely. Death was fixed because a season had come to an end, and there was no purpose. Still other magnolias were alive but starting to die because they, too, were losing their usefulness. And a few magnolias were budding, preparing to bloom!
Scripture reminds us there is a season for everything – including work. A season to begin and a season to grow. A season to withdraw, but also a season to renew. Only God knows the seasons of life, and only God knows the seasons in career and work.
Well, in my job, I wasn’t growing. The tasks I did, although honorable, had a ceiling. Unfortunately, I started going to work feeling drained. My judgment became cloudy, and problems started to surface. Yet I was afraid to face the uncertainty of renewal in this economy and job market.
I prayed a lot, and found I was disobedient to Him in not understanding that a season has a beginning, an end, and a renewal. In Him, I found courage to release what was no longer purposeful in my work-life. I allowed God to lead, and I am now concentrating on my education in preparation for the budding of a new career.
At work today, what season are you in? Find out through prayer, His word, and the eyes and heart He gives you. If His season for you is growing or in full bloom, stay. If His season for you is declining, then follow Him. If there are new buds, then seek His advice even harder. Listen to our Lord because He teaches there is a beginning, an end, and a renewal to all seasons – even the seasons in your work-life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unconditional love and guidance in my job and career. Give me courage to operate in my season, and give discernment to know when my seasons are shifting. Lead me to bloom with all glory to You. In Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Rayana Harris
Online MPA Candidate
Belhaven University
Jackson, Mississippi USA
