When I looked through the kitchen window one morning last week, I spied a patch of moss beside our Bradford pear tree. The neon green spot contrasted with the khaki-colored grass and tree roots around it.
I went outside and stooped to examine the moss. The skinny blades that sprouted straight up out of the soil reminded me of new hair growth on top of a toddler’s head and made me smile.
Then I smiled for a different reason. The bright green growth signaled the coming of spring.
A friend and I predicted folks will welcome the new season this year with open arms as never before. After the trials of 2020 and a winter of pandemic gloom, we need the joys and renewal of spring with its blossoming beauty and warmer temperatures.
Have you noticed how as soon as the temperature rises a few degrees people venture out to walk? Exercising leg muscles, breathing fresh air, and noticing glimpses of green invigorate us and renew the hope of brighter, healthier days.
In addition to physical exercise, some people are exercising faith amid trials they encounter. Navigating new paths can be scary.
Those who don’t yet know God can find peace, hope, and direction by surrendering to His Son, Jesus. Then they can walk with God as a beloved child (Romans 10:9-10, John 3:16, John 1:12).
As Christians, we need consistent renewal in our journey with God. Share on XAs Christians, we need consistent renewal in our journey with God.
Has your joy and hope become dormant during the pandemic winter? Are you wearing a heavy coat of discouragement? Is fear paralyzing your victory? Or are you filled with the joy, hope, and encouragement of Christ but long for a still deeper relationship with Him?
The Bible provides guidance.
Come close to God and He will come close to you.
James 4:8
Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.
Colossians 1:10 (emphasis mine)
What a helpful verse to post and read each spring morning.
How can we renew our walk with God this spring?
First, we acknowledge that God enables us to please Him. Just as God creates the seasons, He creates changes in us and renews our soul as we walk with Him.
Try as we might, improving ourselves is usually short-lived. The One who created us also creates soul change.
For it is God who is at work in you, both to desire and to work for His good pleasure.
Philippians 2:13
The Amplified Bible expands the truth this way:
For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure.
Philippians 2:13
Secondly, in addition to recognizing the source of our spiritual renewal, we look to Jesus as our example.
The one who says that he remains in Him ought, himself also, walk just as He walked.
1 John 2:6
and
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.
Ephesians 5:1-2
When we read the Bible, we can notice the characteristics of Jesus and ask God to transform us to be more like Him.
Slip on your comfortable shoes and join me on the path of the next few posts as we consider ways to renew our walk with Jesus this spring.
Here’s an idea for now:
- Start a new journal or tab a section of an existing journal.
- You might log actual walking times or distances in one section.
- In another part of the journal, as you read your Bible, note the characteristics and actions of Jesus that you can imitate.
- Ask God to guide you into a deeper relationship with Him.
How do you plan to renew your walk with Christ this spring?
If my posts brighten your day, please share the link with your friends. Thank you.
Bible verses are taken from the NASB.
Love that you are writing a series on this topic. I am enjoying a burst of color in my magnolia saucers and tulips. Spring is always a picture of change and growth for me. My reading through the Bible is where my focus is right now–new insights in familiar passages never ceases to amaze me.
Your yard sounds beautiful with its “burst of color,” Marilyn. Isn’t it amazing that God teaches us new insights even when we read familiar passages? I’m glad you mentioned spring as a time of growth. That can be true in nature and in our hearts when we read Scripture as you mentioned.
A thousand “Amen”s Ms. Jeannie. As you look forward to spring arriving, I pray God brings His many blessings into your life in your anticipation. I think spring is my favorite season as it reminds me of renewal and transformation. The very thing God is doing in my life. I wish I could make it happen faster, but I thank God for His patient teaching. God’s blessings ma’am.
I, too, am thankful for God’s patience, J. D., and for the promise of Philippians 1:6 that He never stops transforming us. Blessings to you and your wife this season. Thank you for commenting and sharing my post.
Love this message. Thank you Jeannie. When I walk with God, sharing conversation with Him, I feel comfort and peace only He can provide.
Melissa, thank you for sharing how you sense peace and comfort as you share conversations with God. I agree that He provides those blessings as no one else can. I’ve realized lately I need to still my mind more frequently to hear His responses as I pray. Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts.
I laughed, too, when you mentioned that the moss looked like a toddler’s hair! We used to call it Muppet hair!! I look forward to reading each of your posts in this series! I love the encouraging verses you’ve chosen and the practical suggestions to go along with them!
Kathy, I’m excited about writing the posts as I learn more about imitating Jesus. Muppet hair–love it. It looks so cute on those little toddler heads. Thank you so much for letting me know the verses and suggestions were helpful.
Loved your message this week, Jeannie! I think Spring and walking for wellness go together. It’s a wonderful time to start a new (or revive) a regular walking routine. Walking is great for our heart (and the rest of us), both physically and spiritually. Your scripture verses are so encouraging. Happy walking!
Katherine, the way you described this venture made me want to get out and walk. We have a pretty river walk we need to get back to soon. The scriptures encouraged me, too. Thanks so much for reading.
Thanks for the reminders that spring can bring to help us renew our relationship with God. I have been weeding these last two weeks while it has been cool and particularly after a rain when the weeds come up easier. I have noticed that It is easy to talk to God and listen to what He lays on my heart while weeding because at that time all my cares and concerns seem to float away and my mind is not thinking of anything but pulling those weeds and seeing God’s handiwork in our Creation!
Donna, what a great idea to combine outside work with listening to God. I’ll remember that when I plant some annuals. God’s spring handiwork is amazing, isn’t it? I appreciate you reading and adding a comment to encourage all of us.
Your words are like springtime, Jeannie! What a beautiful post, filled with favorite verses. I plan to pay more attention to my surroundings while enjoying the new season. Thank you!
I love springtime. This post makes me happy and brightens my day.
I’m so glad, Adria. Walking outside at this time of year brightens my day. Reading your comment fills my heart with joy. Thanks for stopping by.
I am looking forward to spring.
Me, too, Teresa. Where I live the Bradford pear trees and Yoshino cherry trees are blooming now. What’s your favorite sign of spring? Thank you for reading and commenting.
Thank you, Cathy. Spring seems like the perfect to time let God renew our hearts, doesn’t it?
I love the Amplified version of Philippians 2:13 that you shared. It is important we remember it is God who does the changing and renewing in us. Our efforts are useless and bring frustration. Spring is a great reminder of the changes He makes in us.
Yes, that’s a good reminder, Barbara, that God does the changing. Just as He renews the earth, He renews our hearts. I appreciate you adding to our conversation.
Thank you for blessing and encouraging me through God’s Word and your comments. So thankful spring is here.
I’m thankful for spring, especially because you get to enjoy it, Jimmie. I know you need that this year. His Word does indeed encourage us.
The winter wind is winding down here in Connecticut…finally. We are seeing signs of spring–subtle but there just the same. I am definitely looking forward to new growth, in me, and in my yard where I can enjoy my herb garden and the butterflies and birds that sip at their flowers.
Time.
Time to reflect and dig into His word.
Time to dig into the warming earth to encourage the new growth, and stifle the weeds.
Jesus wants our time, to grow our relationship. And even now, I have all the time in the world.
Jeanne, what a beautiful picture you painted of spring. Spending time with Jesus does indeed grow our relationship. What type of herbs do you grow?
Jeannie, your posts are always such a bright spot, and this one is no exception. Thank you for putting a little spring in our step. Gd bless you.
Rachael, thank you for your kind comments. Although we can renew our walk with God any time of year, spring seems appropriate with the new life of nature surrounding us, doesn’t it? I love spending time with Him on my deck when spring brings nice weather. Enjoy your time with Him this week.
The fresh awakenings of spring always bring encouragement in my soul and spirit. Your post beautifully captured that sentiment.
Our Creator speaks in powerful way through springtime.
I’m currently reading through the Old Testament, finding forgotten nuggets and fresh insights. Its been a while since I read straight through and I’m taking my time and loving it. I’m also spending some time in the Gospels but mostly focused in the OT.
I enjoyed your post — nice pictures too.
Connie, I appreciate your kinds words. Yes, spring does bring encouragement, especially this year. I’m thankful you’re enjoying Scripture reading. I like combining Old Testament and New Testament books, also. I recently completed a Bible study at my church which was a survey course of five OT books. I learned so much and gained a clearer understanding of OT history. Thanks so much for your comments, Connie.
Again, you have written to us a message which creates spring in my heart.
I’m so glad, Evelyn. I love to share the messages God leads me to write about.
Jeannie, I love the hope and message of spring and your message of our need for renewal too.
Thank you, Debbie. I feel refreshed when I walk outside in the spring. It seems the perfect time to allow God to renew our hearts. Have a great week.