Groundhog Day Special Edition

“My times are in your hands…” – Psalm 31:15a, NIV

Groundhog Day — the day in which many across the United States look to one of God’s creatures to determine the weather forecast for the next six weeks.

The old Dutch superstition hangs upon this premise: if a groundhog emerges from his burrow on a clear and sunny day, sees his shadow, and retreats to his hole, the land will endure six more weeks of winter. However, people can look forward to spring if the groundhog emerges from his burrow and does not see his shadow.

Now, really, do you mean to tell me that we are going to allow our seasons and appointed times to rest in the evidence of whether or not one of God’s creations sees his shadow?

Wouldn’t we rather put our trust in the Creator of creation?

Who is this that some have entrusted to determine the days of their lives?

Punxsutawney Phil? That’s if you live in Pennsylvania.

When you put it like that, it does seem a little ridiculous. But as silly as it may sound, many rely on this little furry rodent.

Now, I will say, there have been times, on occasion, when nature seemed to agree with the old wives’ tale and proved the superstition to be accurate. However, we, who believe in God’s sovereignty, rest in the truth that seasons and times are orchestrated by the movement of God’s hand.

For, Genesis 1:14 tells us on the fourth day, God said, “Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to divide the day from the night; let them be for signs and seasons, and for days and years.”

It is God who ordains our days. In fact, God had our days in mind when He set time into motion. Then, He decided that He needed someone to portray His image on earth. So, He and the heavenly council spoke, “Let us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness.” (Genesis 1:26a)

One reason for the creation of man was to live a life of pleasure in the presence of God. The order of the day: communing with God, feasting on the land, and basking in His presence –– His glory.

Yes, there would be cloudy days accompanied by rain, but those days were only to refresh the land and nurture the plant life, so that man could have food to eat. Therefore, cloudy days should not overshadow us and cause us to retreat and lose sight of God.

God knew life would bring about situations that would blindside us, causing us to take a second look and question what we see. However, our sight and what we see should never move us or constrain us to the shadows.

(This passage was taken from my manuscript.)

What does this mean for us?

God has a plan and purpose for you. Don’t allow the elements to determine whether or not your seasons in God are fruitful or barren. Instead, trust God to be the Author and Finisher of your faith and live life through purpose.

Join me next week for more of Coffee on The Couch.