Bible Society of South Africa

Seasons and rhythms - 15 May 2023

By Xanthe Hancox

Um(Imi)bhalo weBhayibheli

UmShumayeli 3

Konke kunesikhathi sakho

1Konke kunesikhathi sakho,

yonke indaba inomzuzu wayo phansi kwezulu.

2Kukhona isikhathi sokuzalwa

nesikhathi sokufa,

isikhathi sokutshala

nesikhathi sokusiphula okutshaliweyo;

3isikhathi sokubulala

nesikhathi sokuphilisa,

isikhathi sokudiliza

nesikhathi sokwakha;

4isikhathi sokukhala

nesikhathi sokuhleka,

isikhathi sokulila

nesikhathi sokusina;

5isikhathi sokuphonsa amatshe

nesikhathi sokuqoqa amatshe,

isikhathi sokugona

nesikhathi sokungagoni;

6isikhathi sokufuna

nesikhathi sokulahlekelwa,

isikhathi sokugcina

nesikhathi sokuhlahla;

7isikhathi sokuklebhula

nesikhathi sokuthunga,

isikhathi sokuthula

nesikhathi sokukhuluma;

8isikhathi sokuthanda

nesikhathi sokuzonda,

isikhathi sokulwa

nesikhathi sokuzola.

UmShumayeli 3:1-8ZUL59NOVula kumfundi weBhayibheli

Life is filled with seasons and rhythms. We experience joy and sorrow, growth and loss, beginnings and endings. Sometimes, it can be challenging to accept and navigate these different seasons. We may question why certain events happen or struggle to understand the timing of things in our lives.

Yet, in Ecclesiastes 3, one of my favourite passages in the Bible, we are reminded that every season and every activity has its appointed time. There is a divine order and purpose to the different seasons we encounter. We may not always understand or appreciate them in the moment, but God is sovereign over every season of our lives.

In times of grief, God offers comfort and healing. In times of struggle, he gives us strength and guidance. In times of joy, he rejoices with us. And in times of uncertainty, he grants us wisdom and peace.

Let us learn to embrace the seasons of life, trusting that God is at work in each one. As we journey through different experiences, let us seek his wisdom to discern the appropriate response and action for each season. May we find comfort and assurance in knowing that God holds the timing and purpose of our lives in his hands.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the wisdom of Ecclesiastes. Help us to embrace the different seasons of our lives, knowing that you have a purpose and plan for each one. May we trust your perfect timing and find peace in your presence through it all. Amen

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