Devotion – Denise's Scriptural Photography

Renew and Refresh Your Soul

Take the time, be still or dormant for a season, then the refreshing will come.

Many of us would not consider the winter season to be refreshing, as said in Proverbs 25:13. Living in the north country of New York, I had to learn to deal with winter. Winter is the longest season up here. It can be extremely cold, very snowy and yes quite long to endure. Since most of the time is spent indoors, using it wisely for a season of refreshing, or better said as renewing, is helpful. Actually, this is a scriptural principle.

Ephesians 4:23(NKJV) tells us, “and be renewed in the spirit of your mind.”

There are the seasons of busyness in our lives, all throughout our years. Taking a “time out”, being dormant or still is needed to grow and gain renewed strength. Let us learn from nature around us.

John 12:24(NKJV) “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.”

The pictures of the grass, wheat, and plant appear to be dead or barren. The river is frozen; it’s very still. They all seem to be in a state of uselessness, when really, they are resting and refueling for the next season of fruitfulness. Whether a beautiful flower to behold or a delicious fruit to eat, they are busy preparing to emerge again. It is hard work, and the dormant season is necessary. They are being still, resting so they can be revived once again.

Do we take time to be still? God tells us in His word,

“Be still, and know that I am God,” Psalm 46:10 (NKJV).

I look at winter as a “time out”; a time to reflect, prepare and refuel. We also can be ready for the busier seasons ahead. A day of lightly glittering, quietly falling snow can be peaceful and cleansing. It is a beautiful sight to behold. Being still and enjoying the wonderful beauty winter has to offer can help bring renewal and refreshment to your soul.

God Is Graceful And Glorious

While driving home, one autumn day, there was an especially beautiful display of color and light. God’s glory was shining forth. The sun was radiant, as it was nearing time to set for the day. The color of the leaves lit up, glowing brightly from the sun shining on them. It was an awesome show from God.

I was getting near this special spot, known as the point, on The Saint Lawrence River, where the sunsets are just amazing to behold. That day’s sunset was extremely effulgent. Of course, I pulled over and just had to try to capture its glowing beauty.

This sunset trumpets God’s glory and grace. Every day the sun rises and the sun sets. Faithfully, this occurs day after day, as designed by God. Each day is gracefully given to us from God, Himself! What a wonderful gift. We give Him all the glory.

The bible verse from Psalm 84:11 (NKJV) tells us:

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”

God speaks to us through His word and creation. We see this is true by looking at the picture of the sunset; He created. Then we read about it in God’s word, both working together for His grace and glory. Surely, we can take comfort in believing Him when He says, “No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” Walk in His ways and He will be with you.

Be Still And Know That I Am God

Up in the North Country of New York, we get to experience all four seasons. Some places in the world do not get seasonal changes. It can be nice to observe these seasonal transitions, as each time of year, has its own beauty.

The photo featured in this blog is during the season of winter. Winter in the north is very long, cold and snowy. Some winters are harsher than others. It can be difficult to get through to Spring. Many people choose to go to a warmer climate during the winter months. They are known as “Snowbirds. “

Although winter is not my favorite season, it does have some beauty to it that can be refreshing. I look at winter as a time to rest and be renewed. The weather causes us to do more inside activities. We can think about it as a time out. In God’s plan, things are dormant or in a state of hibernation during winter. They are in a waiting pattern; resting and replenishing. We need to learn from their example. Taking time to study, learn and reflect is a good way to spend the time.

God’s word tells us in Psalm 46:10(NKJV) to:

“Be still and know that I am God.”

Each season has a purpose for us. A cold winter day, with freshly falling snow, has a peaceful, serenity to it. The photo of the frozen river on a freezing, yet sunny day, illustrates this well. Take a time out. Be Still and get to know God!