Turning Over A New Leaf This Fall

Fall is a wonderful time of year. Relief from the hot summer temperatures, beautiful colors on the trees, and excitement for upcoming holidays.  There are two times of year when a major emphasis is put on making impactful life changes by getting rid of the old and bringing in the new: the beginning of a New Year, and spring cleaning. New Year’s resolutions are often focused on working out, getting in shape, and eating better. During spring cleaning you have the opportunity to open all the windows, clean out closets, and dust the neglected nooks and crannies of every room, giving you an organized and clean slate to start the season.

But what about fall?  

If we make New Year’s resolutions dedicated to getting our bodies healthy, and concentrate on cleaning out our homes at the start of spring, maybe during fall we should focus on improving the state of our hearts and minds. By doing this, we are preparing ourselves to give thanks to God for everything he’s given us, and celebrate the birth of Jesus.

There’s a quote that starts circulating around the internet and social media this time of year – “autumn shows us how beautiful it is to let things go.” What kinds of things are do you need to let go of in your life that could improve the health of your heart and the quality of your mind? What burdens are weighing you down that God can carry for you? How can you declutter your mind to prepare for a season of thanksgiving and praise? Here are five things to try to let go of and turn over to God this season:

1.     Personal grudges
“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:31-32

2.     Anxiety
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

3.     Fear
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27

4.     Stress
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

5.     Grief
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

As we kick off this wonderful, busy season, take a step back and examine the current state of your heart and mind. Take time out of your schedule for daily devotions, quiet time with God, and attending worship services. Pray for God to show you what needs to change in your life, and ask him to carry your burdens for you. Enjoy this beautiful time of year!