Intro: The Bible uses may word pictures to illustrate spiritual life. Sometimes our Christian life is described as -- Walking, Standing, Running, and Sitting.
I believe each of these words paint a picture of the different seasons we might find ourselves in as Christians. Just as there are different seasons in the year, there are also different seasons to a believer’s life. It is so important to understand these seasons. If you don't understand the season of life you might be in, you might not respond correctly in it and you will not get the best out that God intended of it all.
1. Sometimes Christians Are in the Season of WALKING (Eph. 5:2; II Cor. 5:7; Col. 1:10). When I think of the season of walking, I think of the daily routine of being faithful to the Lord Jesus.
2. Sometimes Christians Are in the Season of STANDING (I Cor. 16:13; Eph. 6:11). Both verses mention "stand." Now when I think of the season of standing, I think of those times of either spiritual warfare or times of trial (I Pet. 1:7).
During times of spiritual warfare or trial, we might not be able to advance or move forward, but as long as we stand where we are and do not go backward, we are still in the good fight.
3. Sometimes Christians Are in the Season of RUNNING (Heb. 12:1; I Cor. 9:24-25). When I think of season of running, I think of those times when there is a task set before us or a challenge set by God in which we would have to exert the best of our time, talents and treasure. (Psa. 119:32)
4. Sometimes Christians Are in the Season of SITTING). Sitting is symbolic of resting (Mic. 4:4; Eph. 2:6). You will recall that both the Tabernacle and Temple of the Jews had several furniture and vessels in it, but it never included a CHAIR to where the great high priest could sit. Why? Under the Old Testament, the work of the high priest is recurring and is never finished (cf. Heb. 7:27; 10:4, 11-12).
When I think of the season of sitting, I think of those times of resting in the Lord – a sweet time of fellowship and refreshing for the soul; soaking in His word, and having our spiritual batteries recharged.
We also see in the season of sitting those times of patiently waiting upon the Lord (Isa. 40:31). Those are the times when we are waiting for God to give us clear direction or an answer to prayer (Psa. 37:7).
Conclusion: And so, there are at least four different seasons in our spiritual lives. Brethren, which one best describes where you are at this morning? Is it – Walking? Standing? Running? or Sitting?
Whoever you are, for as long as you are a born again child of God, it is but normal to be in one of these four seasons. You must know in which one you are in now; and when you do, make the best out of it and learn…for God is with you there.
However, if you are unsaved or unsure, these four seasons are meaningless to you. But the Holy Bible suggests a season written for you in II Cor. 6:2 – “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” Friend, come to the Lord Jesus Christ with faith in your heart. Believe on Him who died for you and be saved TODAY!
