There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace... He has made everything beautiful in its time. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8,11)

Life is meant to be experienced in its fullness, embracing both the light and shadow of our human journey.

The rhythm of contrasts in this passage is striking: birth and death, planting and uprooting, weeping and laughing. These aren't merely random experiences; they represent the divine balance God has woven into the fabric of existence. Like a pendulum swinging between opposite points, our lives move through various seasons, each with its unique purpose and meaning.

As followers of Christ, we often struggle with this balance. We may believe that faith should shield us from suffering or that spiritual maturity means constant joy. Yet Scripture paints a different picture. Jesus Himself, our perfect example, demonstrated this divine balance. He wept at Lazarus' tomb yet celebrated at the wedding in Cana. He retreated for solitary prayer yet engaged wholeheartedly with crowds. He spoke boldly when needed yet remained silent before His accusers.

The wisdom of Ecclesiastes reminds us that imbalance distorts God's design. When we cling only to seasons of prosperity and joy, refusing to acknowledge times of loss or grief, we deny part of our humanity. Similarly, when we dwell perpetually in sorrow or hardship, failing to embrace moments of delight, we miss the fullness of God's gifts.

Balance means recognizing the purpose in each season and allowing ourselves to fully experience what God has ordained for that time. There is purpose in our building up and in our tearing down.

Even the painful contrasts—the dying, the uprooting, the weeping—have beauty when experienced in their proper time and perspective. God doesn't waste any season of our lives. Therefore, let us surrender to the One who orchestrates everything with perfect wisdom and love.

By Jim Connell

Jim is the founder of Lexington Rescue Mission, and authors JesusIsLordBlog.com, FaithAnswersPress.net, and FAQs of Faith (a mobile app)