“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; 
A time to plant, and a time to pluck what is planted.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 (NKjV)

When my spiritual walk seems quiet and slow I will ask God, “Why?”  He will then whisper to my heart, “Rest!  Be still and know that I am God.”  In these moments, I understand that God is asking me to wait on Him.  I have entered a season of dormancy and sleep, a winter of sorts.

While waiting on Him, it is perfectly fine for us to sleep and rest. We, of human flesh, need to take occasional breaks from active Christian service on the front lines.  Our Father understands this and encourages quiet times of respite.  God needs strong soldiers in His army and weak ones mean possible causalities.  Give yourself permission to take time to regain your focus and strength. He has already written your permission slip.

Some in ministry are so busy serving others that they neglect their own spiritual, emotional, and physical health. They are strong leaders and may have over committed themselves to church activities.  Their own families may be in need of their attention.    So, it is not a weak soul but rather a strong believer who has the discernment and wisdom to acknowledge a change needs to be made.  It takes humility to confess they have over committed themselves. 

You may feel a passion for each ministry you are working with, but there are many ways to support a ministry.  Could you be called to pray for it or donate funds to support its efforts? You may have to “pull out” of a leadership role and limit your time, as another ministry is where God wants you to grow. 

Quiet times of winter are not selfish at all.  They are times God has planned and will use to equip His children for future ministry. Our Father wants us strong and prepared for battle, as the schemes of the enemy require strong spiritual muscles.  A clear and focused mind that has rested by the springs of living waters will be a clear threat to any who oppose the plans and purposes of God.

Some would argue with my words by saying, “God’s grace is sufficient for us.”  I would gently reply back, “Do you recall our Lord Jesus going off to solitary places to pray?  He too needed times to pour out His heart, hear the voice of His Father, and find rest for His soul.  He spent time away from everyone.” 

Winter is not a bad thing; it gives plants time to build up strength for the task that lies ahead.  Spring will soon come and summer and fall will follow.  Each season is important and of use to our Lord.  Don’t fight it when the weather changes. 

Accept now that God knows what is best for you.  He knows your frame… .He knows that you are but dust.  With His strength you will do mighty things for Him. However, it is not you alone who is called to serve.  He has prepared works for others to accomplish and you may be standing in their way and hindering the work of God.  Pray about the areas in your life that need to be pruned back.  Rest and build up your strength and then act.  Your next season of spring will be magnificent and you will find yourself rested and planted just where God wants you to be.

“And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise
and knowledge to those who have understanding.”  Daniel 2:21 (NKJV)

“And He said to them, ‘It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority.’”  Acts 1:7 (NKJV)