When you think of spring, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Depending on where you live, the first thing might be warmer weather and no more snow. Or if you live in the Pacific Northwest like me, you’re probably thinking about the end of the rain. Spring also brings things to life in nature, the ground begins to thaw, spring flowers begin to bud, leaves are filling the trees, and we hear the sound of birds singing. Or maybe you think about spring cleaning, a time to get rid of the old and make room for something new. My favorite memory from spring was when we brought a new life home. This time two years ago, our puppy Coco came into our lives and bought so much joy. What’s wonderful about spring is that it’s a time for something new to spring up after what was probably a cold and dreary winter.
Just as God created the seasons of nature, He created our souls and our hearts to experience seasons. What does the spring season mean for our hearts and souls? Spring is a time of renewal for our souls and a chance for something new. God tells us in Isaiah 43:19, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland”. Spring brings something new as we move from the wilderness and wasteland of a winter season of the soul. Our hearts spring for joy as we get ready for what’s to come. As Harriet Ann Jacobs says, “The beautiful spring came; and when nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also.” What has been waiting inside of you all winter? Spring has something to say to you.
Spring can bring different types of renewal, emotional, physical, spiritual and career renewal.
Emotional Renewal
Renewal comes out of a winter soul of dryness and wilderness, the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, a severe illness or a bout of deep depression. Spring brings an opportunity for healing and restoration from our weary souls. Each spring reminds us that death doesn’t have the last word. Even the barren tree grows fruitful. God’s spring begins with renewal inside of us. Where do our hearts need spring cleaning? Who do we need to forgive, to love? What do we need to let go of?
Physical Renewal
Many of us made those new year’s resolutions to lose weight, exercise more, eat better and get more sleep. Sound familiar? While we may have slacked off since the beginning of the year, now is a great time to refocus on renewing our bodies. How much exercise are you getting? One of my favorite springtime activities is taking Coco for walks. How’s your diet? What needs to go and what needs to be added? This is a great time to consider the best ways to renew our physical energy.
Spiritual Eenewal
In spring we can let God renew our spirits. Spring provides an opportunity for us to grow deeper in our spiritual lives. We can replace the negative impact of winter on our souls with the joy of spring. Just like we plant flowers in the spring, it’s a time to think about planting holy habits. Things like praying, journaling, reading the Bible, attending a Bible study or maybe start going to church.
Career Renewal
Spring might be a good time to look at your career goals. Are you where you want to be? If not, what do you need to do to get there? Is it time to improve your leadership skills? It might be time to dust off that resume and search for your dream job and make that bold new career move. What is God calling you to?
Often, we don’t take the time to consider what spring means for us as leaders. I’d like to invite you to take a spring leadership audit. Ask yourself the following three questions.
- What am I cultivating right now?
- What needs to be pruned?
- What am I waiting to bloom that I should water today?
Beyond leadership, what does your spring look like this year? It might be helpful to pause, pray and journal your thoughts to the following questions.
- What dream or vision has been dormant that spring is inviting back to life?
- Who in my circle needs me to show up as a nurturing, growing presence right now?
- What one small, faithful step can I take this week toward renewal?
- What area in my life is God wanting to renew?
Renewal is not an accident; it’s part of God’s design. My prayer is that this spring you discover what truly gives you joy. As the flowers bloom, I hope you bloom with hope and enjoy all of the wonderful flowers God has for you!
