Louise Gevers

"I have cared for you from the time you were born. I am your God and will take care of you until you are old and your hair is gray. I made you and will care for you; I will give you help and rescue you. ‘To whom will you compare me?' says the LORD. ‘Is there anyone else like me?'" Isaiah 46:3-5

What a beautiful promise God makes to be there for His people from birth to old age, encompassing all the seasons of life (Ecclesiastes 3:2-11); it's one that only He can keep. Seasons are an enriching part of life; they come and they go, but often because a person prefers one season more than another, he doesn't make the most of the season he's in. We actually only enjoy the next season fully when we've optimized the one we're in and in faith "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

I awoke one morning to golden sunshine filtering through the changing leaves of the trees outside my window that had deepened even further in their mellow autumn hues; a new morning and fresh beauty. The cooing sounds of our baby grandchild with my daughter in the next room warmed my heart and filled me with delight.

This was a new season of my life, a new season to rejoice in God's goodness and grace and to praise Him for bringing me all this way, and filling my life with richness and joy. Already He had watched over them and brought them both safely through a difficult birth; He had also provided for me to be with them.

‘How much more able and faithful is Almighty God than a loving mother?' (1 October)There is no comparison - a mother's tender care and devotion have no power over life and death - that belongs to God alone. He works in perfect wisdom and co-ordination with infinite love and care. He is incomparable. He was there throughout that dire time and He answered our prayers; He provided for their needs and continues to do so in the finest detail. "This God - how perfect are his deeds! How dependable his words! He is like a shield for all who seek his protection." (Psalm18:30)

In Paul's words, "I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name" (Ephesians 3:14-15) and praise Him for His care of us and our families. Imperfect though they are, He puts us in families for mutual love and support and He shapes, moulds and blesses each one and satisfies our needs and longings. He provides new seasons.

In all the seasons of our lives He invites us to trust Him as He teaches us that faith means going forward into what we cannot see, but with the knowledge that He is faithful and will never leave us.

Prayer: "How precious, O God, is your constant love! We find protection under the shadow of your wings. We feast on the abundant food you provide; you let us drink from the river of your goodness. You are the source of all life, and because of your light we see the light." (Psalm 36:7-9) Help me to praise You in all the seasons of my life, and to recognise Your goodness and love even when the season is dark or dry. In Jesus' Name I ask this, Amen.