Embrace the Season

As the vibrant hues of the summer fade into the gentle embrace of autumn, we find ourselves stepping into a season of reflection and gratitude. The crisp air brings new rhythms and new beginnings. As we prepare to embrace the season, let’s open our hearts and be filled with a confident hope that the Lord has something beautiful prepared for us in this season and beyond. 

This season, we’re embracing: 

Rest & Renewal 

Rest is something that we could all use a little more of these days. The days just fly by so quickly, it’s hard to feel rested and caught up, much less ready to kick off a new season with our best foot forward. But this season, we are focusing on finding true rest in Jesus and renewal for our souls. We hope to inspire new ideas of ways to slow down and encourage you that the Lord is truly the source of true rest. 

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. - Matthew 11:28 (NIV) 

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. - Psalm 23:2-3a (NIV) 

A Prayer for Rest & Renewal 

Heavenly Father, as we enter this season of rest and renewal, we thank you for the opportunity to draw near to you and find solace in your presence. Help us to quiet our hearts and minds, that we may hear your gentle voice speaking words of peace and comfort to our souls. Grant us the grace to embrace this time of rest, that we may emerge refreshed and renewed, ready to serve you with joy and vigor. Amen. 

Gratitude & Thanksgiving 

It is the season of thanksgiving, after all! But beyond the holiday, the fall is the perfect time to embrace new rhythms of noticing and thanking God for the beautiful blessings around us. We want to encourage you to adopt a gratitude practice in your routine that reminds you to be in constant praise to the Father. 

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. - 1 Chronicles 16:34 (NIV) 

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) 

A Prayer for Gratitude & Thanksgiving  

Gracious God, as we gather together in thanksgiving, we are reminded of the countless blessings that you have bestowed upon us. Open our hearts to recognize your goodness and grace in every moment of our lives. May our gratitude overflow, as we offer our thanks and praise to you, the giver of all good gifts. Amen. 

Hospitality & Community 

Life is so much sweeter with community around you, isn’t it? Whether it’s celebrating Thanksgiving Day with family, spending time with dear friends over cups of coffee, or inviting new friends into your home, we want to encourage and equip you to embrace Biblical hospitality and understand the importance of community in your life! 

Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.  I PETER 4:9-10 NIV 

"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." - Matthew 18:20 (NIV) 

A Prayer for Hospitality & Community 

Loving God, you have called us to be a community of faith, bound together by your love and grace. Help us to open our hearts and homes to one another, extending the hand of friendship and hospitality to all who cross our paths. May our gatherings reflect your love, as we come together as sisters in faith, sharing in the joy and fellowship of your presence. Amen. 

As we enter the fall season, let’s set intentions and be thoughtful about what we are focusing on. To help you do that well, we created a worksheet - “My Best Fall Ever” - for you to reflect on. What will make this season more meaningful to you? Let’s find out together! 

Looking for more fall inspiration? Check out our Welcoming Fall Articles for more inspiration and encouragement to celebrate the season!