Here's why today is important… it's the first official day of fall! That really doesn't mean much here in Georgia, because it is still as hot as blazes, but today marks a new season on the calendar.
On one level, fall simply means cooler weather, changing leaves, FOOTBALL!, pumpkin spice lattes (even though I don't drink coffee), and endless Hallmark movies around my house (even though I don't watch them—no, not one, lol!).
But on another level, today marks the opportunity to…
Seize the season!
Today's an opportunity to reflect on the year we've had so far, evaluate the strides we've made and the steps we still need to take, and determine in our hearts to finish this year strong.
I don't know about you, but I am determined to seize the fall season, the fourth quarter of this year, and see traction and growth in key areas of my life.
But how? Over my next three emails, I'm going to share six ways to seize the season. Here are the first two.
1. We SEIZE the SEASON through a fresh PERSPECTIVE from God.
Here's the thing about today, September 22nd: it has left September 21st and every day before it in the past. We must forget what is behind and strain toward what is ahead (Philippians 3:13). And we must receive grace for today and for this season, trusting that Lamentations 3:22-23 is for us, right now: His mercies are new every morning; great is His faithfulness.
Whatever the first three quarters of this year held for you, they don't get the final word. Let's shake off the shame, regret, and failures of yesterday and receive God's grace to grow each day in the season ahead!
2. We SEIZE the SEASON with the PRESENCE of God.
For the believer, this is paramount. I'm reminded of Moses' words to God in Exodus 33:15-16: "If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?"
I'm old enough now to know that growth, change, and traction don't happen by willpower alone. I need my will empowered by the presence of God. For me, there really is no lasting progress without continually tapping into His presence. So today, I recommit myself to greater intimacy with God, and I trust that through that intimacy I'll be able to live more intentionally.
Want some help seizing this season?
That's exactly why I wrote A Life That Wins, a 40-day devotional and video series that helps you identify and walk out the "hinge decisions" God is highlighting for you over the next 90 days.
This fall, I'm leading a live cohort on Zoom, one evening a week. I'll personally teach the material, coach, pray with you, and walk through the season alongside you.
We begin on Tuesday, September 29th @ 8pm.
The cost of the cohort is usually $97. But use promo code “50OFFLIVE” and you will receive $50 off, making the live cohort only $47!
Two other options are available as well.
Click here for all the details.
Seizing the season with you,
Mike
P.S. In my next email, I'll share #3 and #4, including the verse that has been a lifeline for me when I'm tired of trying to do everything.
P.S.S. All the proceeds from a Life That Wins will help cover the costs of my missions trip to Mexico. This is my first international trip as an evangelist, and I would be honored by your support!