For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign Lord will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations. Isaiah 61:11

I love spring! Living near Chicago, I can fully experience all the seasons, but my favorite time of the year has always been spring. Signs of springtime are all around me as the birds are chirping, the trees are budding, the warm wind is blowing, and the tulip leaves are breaking through the cold, compact dirt. Everywhere the earth is shouting: a fresh start, a new life, a new beginning, and an optimistic view. Thankfully, my winter blues dissipate with each added minute of sunshine and upward degree. As winter bids farewell and spring says hello, my energy increases, and I feel lighter. My entire outlook changes. This change of season reminds me of how my view positively changes when I praise the Lord. Each time I am depressed, discouraged, or down in the dumps, I have a choice to worship God. When I select this route rather than the road of self-pity, my perspective improves. Faith increases as I begin to acknowledge that God is not surprised by my circumstances, and He is aware of what I am feeling and experiencing. As I trust in Him, I can move from a winter-like attitude to a spring-like attitude, full of hope and confidence in God. Over time, this is a trust that believes that flowers will bloom out of the overwhelming times and situations. The trials of our lives are the dirt and mud needed for the beautiful flowers to fully bloom.

Father God, thank you for spring and fresh beginnings. Amen.

Tena DeGraaf is an author and speaker with the mission of inspiring women to grow in faith, hope, and love.