Preparing for Winter

December 6, 2007

By Paul Veliquette

A hint of fall is in the air. Leaves are beginning to turn, the mornings are a little nippier, and all the little creatures are storing up for their winter snooze. All of us human types look deep into the closet to make sure the winter clothes are still there. We know here in Colorado that winter can and will come whenever it decides.

I have always been fascinated how some creatures of the animal kingdom prepare for winter. In the fall these animals get ready for winter by eating extra food and storing it as body fat. They use this fat for energy while hibernating. Some also store food like nuts or acorns to eat later in the winter. The animal's body temperature drops, and its heartbeat and breathing slow down. It uses very little energy.

There is not a human equivalent to hibernation except perhaps football season! It does, however, make me think about what we do to prepare for the harsh times of life. Unfortunately, a season of winter in one's personal life can come when least expected. It may be a crisis at work, a problem with a child, an unresolved issue with a spouse, or an unanticipated temptation. They come sweeping over you like that sudden winter storm, burying you deep in its life-threatening grip. What does one do? How do you prepare?

Know that there will be winter seasons of life. Following Christ is no guarantee everything is going to go smoothly. Don't be pessimistic but don't be surprised. I would like to suggest several "storing up" activities that will help you survive the harshness of winter.

Store up friendships before hard times come. It is amazing how many people will clamor for support during crisis but spend little or no time with others when things are going well. Build and strengthen relationships NOW!

Store up the Word of God. The Bible says, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you" (Psalm 119:11, NIV). Countless times I have been strengthened during moments of winter by passages of Scripture that come to my remembrance.

Store up memories of your past encounters of life where God has brought you through hard times. As I reflect over my walk with Christ, there are multiple stories of God's faithfulness to me. The psalmist David says it best: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me" (Psalm 23:4).

-- Paul Veliquette is pastor of Windsor (Colo.) Assembly of God.