Autumn Can Show Us How to Let Go of Our Comfort Zone

 

by Barbara Latta @barbaralatta

Each fall season, Ken and I, along with some friends, take a motorcycle trip to the mountains to view the spectacular color of God’s artistry among the trees.

From year to year the color varies dependent on the weather conditions of summer. But they are always a reminder of the creative power of our Lord. Pictures do not capture the brilliance of nature’s paintbrush. The shimmery golds, dazzling oranges, and fiery reds feed our eyes and minds with the amazing creative power of our Lord.

These leaves eventually detach and fall to the ground. The crunchy tree material drifts in spirals to the forest floor to decay and become part of the soil that will nourish new seeds in the spring. The beauty served a purpose for a time, but only lasts for a season.

What can autumn teach us about letting go of our comfort zone? Like the trees release their leaves, we can learn to release our own desires in favor of God’s desires.  

We can grow attached to accomplishments or places of knowledge with God. We may want to stay where it is comfortable. We don’t want to let go of what is familiar. But to expand and receive new levels of inspiration, we must follow the Creator’s leading.

We should periodically examine our lifestyles and find out if we have adopted some routines that may not be healthy. We may have developed eating habits that we aren’t conscious of, attitudes that are not holy, or lack of diligence in some of our work.

This is the time to step out in faith and obey the Lord’s leading for a direction we may not have been before.

To live in our identity in Christ means we live like He did. We follow His teachings through His commandments. Sometimes we may feel as if this is an impossible task. But He doesn’t expect us to do this through our own power.

"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 a hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV)

What kind of habits did Jesus live by?

He knew when to draw away from other people to be alone with His Father.

Prayer and Bible study can draw us closer to our Savior. We can hear His voice clearly when we take the time to listen.

Regular church attendance brings us into fellowship with other believers.

Falling leaves can remind us to let go of the past, live in the present, and pray about the future. Our heavenly Father always has new revelation, knowledge, and assignments for us as we seek to follow His will. (click to share on X)

What do falling leaves remind you of? Join the conversation