CHANGE: To everything there is a season, 

and a time to every purpose under the heaven

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Change is an inevitable part of life, and embracing it can be incredibly beneficial.

Imagine life as a magnificent tree. Throughout the year, it undergoes remarkable transformations. Spring explodes with vibrant life, summer nourishes with warmth and abundance, autumn ignites the leaves in fiery hues, and winter cloaks the earth in quiet slumber. Each season, with its unique character, contributes to the tree's overall beauty and enduring growth. Each season of our life is also unique, as it is accompanied by enough change to challenge us. Each season reflects the seeds sown from previous seasons. They also provide preparation for future seasons. 

Just like the seasons of nature, our lives are marked by distinct periods of joy, challenge, growth, and even loss. These experiences shape our perspectives and mold who we become, influencing how close we abide with the Lord.

This month, we'll focus our prayers on maintaining focus on God during life's seasonal shifts, both expected and unexpected. Each change impacts our future and our walk with the Lord, shaping us to become more Christ-like. Our hope is to allow these changes to be catalysts, drawing us closer to our Heavenly Father, not further away.

Here's how we can relate the seasons of our lives to summer, spring, fall, and winter:

• In the Spring of our lives: God brings us into a time of new beginnings, full of exploration, curiosity, and growth. This is a time when our Father takes us to a place of learning, and discovering more of God has placed in us in preparation for strengthening us for the next season. 
• In the Summer of our lives: God will bring us to a season of peak activity, productivity, and achievement. This is akin to when we put our skills to use, build careers, raise families, continue current projects and experience life to the fullest.
• In the Autumn of our lives: Just as fall brings vibrant colors and a harvest, this season is about reflection, reaping the benefits of our efforts, and appreciating what we've built. The Holy Spirit will guide us through a time for transitioning priorities, letting go, and finding new meaning and purpose.
• In the Winter of our lives: Similar to winter's quiet and introspective nature, this is a time for rest, sharing wisdom, experiences, and enjoying the fruits of our labor. God lovingly brings us to this season of slowing down, appreciating loved ones, and leaving a legacy.

But within the ever-shifting seasons and landscape of our lives, there exists a constant source of strength and solace – our relationship with God. As we pray and intercede regarding our “Walking with God in Every Season of Our Lives," may we seek to pray that our faith deepens, our obedience is sure, and our change is aligned with the move of God. 

Suggested Prayer Points

These are just suggestions. As you spend time with God and inquire of Him how to address your prayers this month, feel free to direct your points as the Holy Spirit leads, and to use scriptures of your choosing. 

Prayer Point:  Pray for those who are on the verge of receiving Jesus Christ as the Lord. Let's pray that they will want to change from darkness and step into the transforming light of Jesus Christ. 

Scriptures: 

Romans: 10:9-10

If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.

Psalm 34:17-18

When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

Prayer Point: Accepting Christ as Lord and Savior can be a major shift in one’s beliefs, perspectives, and commitments.  

• Where we’ve deserved punishment – now we’ve found grace.
• We were blind but - we now can see.
• Where we felt alone – now we have a friend…in Jesus.

Let us pray that the new believer is clear and confirmed in realizing that he or she is no longer lost but saved by grace.

Scriptures:

2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 

Psalm 103:12: As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.

Prayer Point: Help us to have an appreciation and a level of acceptance for the cycle of life.

Seasons change, generations come and go, and history often seems to repeat itself. People fall in love, have children, build careers, and eventually die. But may we be encouraged to use wisdom and prepare ourselves for the coming season.

Scriptures:

Ecclesiastes 1:9 What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.

Prayer Point: Pray that we always look to the Holy spirit to help us take off the old man, (our old ways) and put on the character of Christ.

May we remember that this is an on-going process of growth in faith. We strive to shed sinful tendencies and embrace Christ-like qualities. May we also remember that we are "created in righteousness and holiness" to reflect God's character.

Scriptures:  

Ephesians 4:22-24 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Romans 12:1-2 1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God-this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Prayer Point: May we not continue to limit God by looking to the past.

In the Spring of our lives, God brings us into a time of NEW beginnings, as our young experience the season of Spring may they be full of exploration, curiosity for God and may they experience spiritual growth. It is also possible for those of us who have seen many days, to trust God to experience the NEWNESS of life once again. May we not limit God by looking back and rehearsing our past or current trials. For God wants to do a new and wondrous thing in each of our lives. Will we let Him?

Scriptures:

Isaiah 43:19: This is what the LORD says— he who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, who brings out chariots and horses, an army of warriors— they will lie down together and never rise again; they will be completely burned up, extinguished like a wick. Forget the former things; do not dwell on the events of the past. Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Revelation 21:5: He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, because these words are trustworthy and true.

Prayer Point: Pray that we do not allow ourselves to be stuck in old patterns that no longer serve us anymore.

Scriptures:

Jeremiah 29:1 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Ephesians 2:10 This verse emphasizes your unique purpose. "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (NIV) God created you with a specific purpose in mind, and He has good works prepared for you to accomplish.

Prayer Point:  Allow God to take us out of our comfort zones.

There are times when God removes or calls us out of our comfort zones. As we anticipate changing familiar situations, scenarios, or the directions of our lives we can experience anxiety. Negative thoughts and feelings can lead to greater stress. Even positive change can be unsettling. 

Scriptures: 

Philippians 4:6, 7

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 

James 1:2-4: Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

Prayer Point: May we remember that God will see us through all our challenges.

As we anticipate changing situations, challenges, scenarios of our lives we can experience anxiety. Negative thoughts and feelings can lead to greater stress. Even positive change can be upsetting. Pray that the people of God trust and allow Him to see us through the changes and know that we will be alright. 

Scriptures: 

Philippians 4:6, 7

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” 

Isaiah 41:10

Fear you not; for I am with you be not dismayed; for I am your God: I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of My righteousness.

1 Corinthians 12:9 His grace is sufficient

Point: Pray that we are wise in the seeds that we sow throughout our life. Our seasons of harvest will always reflect what we did in our seasons of sowing. May we be intentional to sow good seeds. 

The Bible uses seeds as metaphors for our actions, words, and choices. They represent what we "sow" into our lives.

Yes…harvest represents the consequences of our choices. We reap what we sow, both good and bad. 

When we’ve had seasons that we need the scenario to change, or to improve. We can use the principles of Seedtime and harvest and be purposeful and faithful to plant better seeds.

Scripture:

Galatians 6:7-8 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction. Whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.” 

Matthew 13:18-23 18 “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 20 The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. 23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.

Prayer Point: Whatever your challenge is today…we pray for it to get better!

God is true to His Word. He can and does use EVERYTHING that occurs in our lives for our transformation for the better. Even if we are what we consider faithful, law abiding saints, there is always room for growth. If we allow it, it can strengthen our faith, change our minds, give us guidance, and encourage us to not give up. 

We pray for change, for betterment. We constantly pray for a closer dependence upon God. but in the next voice we pray that we be protected from the storms, that we don't have to cross any stormy seas. We pray that the path is smooth and stress-free.

God uses those rough seasons, those painful patches to refine our faith and lead to greater maturity. Let us pray that we learn to truly rejoice in the midst of our rough patches. May we pray as Job did in chapter 19:25-27….For I know that my redeemer liveth, And that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, Yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom I shall see for myself, And mine eyes shall behold, and not another; Though my reins be consumed within me.

Scriptures: 

James 1:2-4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Romans 5:3-4: "We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Prayer Point: May we be steadfast as we go through the phase of having our prayer answered.

When we are dealing with an illness. We know that there is a “change” that has to take place.

• In order to prepare for or take on a new position, in your job, there is a “change” that will take place.
• If we are looking for a relationship with a family member to improve, a “change has to take place.
• Father help us to make the change and still be who you have shaped and groomed us to be…Steadfast and faithful! 

Scriptures: 

Psalm 96:2-3 - Sing to the Lord, praise His name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. 

Psalm 51:10 - Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

1 Corinthians 15:58 - May we be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord! 

Prayer Point:   May our prayers and the scope of our service be expanded beyond our personal borders.

God calls us to not only recognize the scope of what He has for us to do and to walk through it. He needs us to embrace it by expanding the attitude of our thinking and our faith. May our prayers and the scope of our service change from being merely home focused but may we have the courage to pray and service those in need beyond doors and even beyond our borders. 

Scriptures:

Deuteronomy 10:18-19. 18 He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. 19 And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.

Isaiah 54:2: Enlarge the place of your tent and let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; do not spare; lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes.

Matthew 28:19-20: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Prayer Point: God uses change to prepare us for greater works.  

Scriptures: 

Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." This verse assures us that even through difficult changes, God is working something good out in our lives.

2 Corinthians 3:18: "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." This verse talks about how 

James 1:2-4: "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." This passage highlights the importance of trials and challenges in building our faith and resilience. 

Prayer Point: Praise God for being Our shepherd. He is Jehovah Rohi.

Scriptures: John 10:14 - 15 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.

Psalm 23:1-4 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

• He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: 

• He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

•  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.   

Prayer Point: May we trust God’s faithfulness as we face the aging process. God’s love and presence remains constant throughout our lives.

Scriptures: 

Psalm 71:18 Even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me..." 

Prayer Point: Pray that the unsettledness that accompanies CHANGE does not stop us from hearing the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Scriptures: 

Psalm 23:1-2 - The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters... 

Psalm 46:1-3: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains shake with its swelling.

Prayer Point:  Let us pray that we change our mindset about going through difficult seasons. Help us to embrace the fact that “Change” is the opportunity to be empowered by God’s strength and to become more like God. 

Scriptures: 

Isaiah 40:31

"They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint." 

Prayer Point: Pray that we “KNOW”: that God has given us the strength to go through this season’s battle. 

Scriptures: 

Deuteronomy 31:6: "Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.

2 Corinthians 12:9: "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'" Though we may feel weak, God's grace is enough. His strength shines brightest when we feel most vulnerable.

Prayer Point: Praying for New Beginnings

In the Spring of our lives, God brings us into a time of NEW beginnings, as our young experience the season of Spring may they be full of exploration, curiosity and hunger for God and may they experience spiritual growth. 

Scriptures:

Isaiah 43:19: 

This is what the LORD says— he who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters, who brings out chariots and horses, an army of warriors— they will lie down together and never rise again; they will be completely burned up, extinguished like a wick. Forget the former things; do not dwell on the events of the past. Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Revelation 21:5: 

He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, because these words are trustworthy and true.

Prayer Point: Pray about how we use our time.

So many of us are involved with the endless…work of ministry, maintaining our families, and managing the cares and concerns of our community. So much so…we are tired, exhausted, and ragged from the cycle of busyness. Without realizing it, the work, the people, and the concerns can become our gods. We begin to look and behave like that which has our focus. All which depletes our health and lessens our ability to hear or follow God’s direction. 

Our El Shaddi, our sovereign Lord, demonstrated the importance of rest and sets a precedent for the Sabbath, a day dedicated to reflection and ceasing work. This isn't because God was tired, but rather to establish a pattern for humanity. Let us pray that we become faithful to change to maintain the Sabbath and “REST”. Let us first look at the scripture…

Scriptures:

Exodus 20:8-10

Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God.

Scriptures:

Matthew 11:28-30

28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Prayer Point: Letting Go of the Past, Forgive and Love

Let our hearts be encouraged to grow to maturity, …so that we might see one another through your loving eyes and offer compassion and understanding.

Sometimes the very situation or even individual that has irritated us or incited the resentment…is the very situation God will use to bring about a tremendous victory.

Scripture:

Just like Colossians 3:13 instructs, let’s have a change of heart and: 'Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Isaiah 43:18-19: Forget the former things; do not dwell on the events of the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Philippians 3:13-14: Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Here, the Apostle Paul emphasizes moving forward in faith, leaving the past behind.

Prayer Point: Praise God for His Character is Constant 

While the world around us may change, God's character remains constant, providing a source of unwavering love and faithfulness. We want to Praise God's Unchanging Nature amidst every expected and unexpected change in ourselves:

Scriptures:

Malachi 3:6 (NIV): "For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed." This verse offers comfort and stability.

Hebrews 13:8 

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

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