How does Mark 13:28 encourage us to discern spiritual seasons in our lives? The Verse at the Center “Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its branches become tender and sprout leaves, you know that summer is near.” — Mark 13:28 Why Jesus Points to a Fig Tree • The fig tree was among the last to leaf out in spring; its new leaves unmistakably announced a change of season. • Jesus uses a familiar, visible sign to teach His followers that spiritual realities also have discernible markers. • He expects believers to train their eyes—physical and spiritual—to recognize when God is moving toward fulfillment, whether in prophetic events or personal growth. Biblical Basis for Spiritual Seasons • Ecclesiastes 3:1 — “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” • Psalm 1:3 — “He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season.” • James 5:7 — “See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the soil, being patient until it receives the early and late rains.” • These passages reinforce that God arranges life in rhythms; wise believers learn to cooperate with them rather than resist them. What Spiritual “Leaves” Might Look Like • A renewed hunger for Scripture that wasn’t present before. • Conviction over sin that once felt “normal.” • Doors opening for ministry or service you never pursued. • Relationships shifting—some closing, others forming—preparing you for the next phase. • Unmistakable confirmations through sermons, counsel, or circumstances that align with what God has been whispering in prayer. Practical Steps to Discern Your Season 1. Examine your fruit: Galatians 5:22-23 lists spiritual fruit; which traits are budding, and which remain dormant? 2. Track the pattern: Keep a journal of recurring Scriptures, themes, or impressions. Over time, trends emerge like leaves on a branch. 3. Seek wise counsel: Proverbs 11:14 commends safety in many advisers. Ask mature believers what they observe in your life. 4. Watch and pray: Mark 13:33 cautions, “Be on your guard and stay alert.” Prayerful vigilance keeps you sensitive to subtle shifts. 5. Align your actions: When you sense God leading into a new season, take small, obedient steps—much like a farmer preparing fields when he first feels spring in the air. Responding to Each Season • Planting (preparation): Hosea 10:12 urges, “Break up your fallow ground.” Invest in study, training, and repentance. • Growing (cultivation): Colossians 2:7 tells us to be “rooted and built up in Him.” Deepen disciplines and relationships. • Harvesting (fruitfulness): Galatians 6:9 encourages persistence: “At the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” • Resting (renewal): Mark 6:31 shows Jesus inviting the disciples to rest. Receive replenishment without guilt. Staying Ready for Christ’s Return and Daily Guidance • Just as the fig leaves signaled summer’s approach, spiritual indicators alert us that Jesus’ coming is nearer than yesterday (Romans 13:11-12). • Continual attentiveness keeps us faithful both for that ultimate event and for the everyday assignments He gives. Key Takeaways • God reveals spiritual seasons through observable signs, just as He built natural rhythms into creation. • Discernment grows through Scripture, prayer, observation, and counsel. • Obedience in each season prepares you for the next, ensuring you won’t be caught off guard—either by life’s changes or by the Lord’s return. |
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