The land has yielded its harvest; God, our God, blesses us. Psalm 67:6, NIV

 

Autumn is a time for gratitude. Nature itself reminds us that after the season of growth comes a season of harvest – a time to gather the fruits of our labour and reflect on the gifts we have received. In the autumn season of our lives, when we are no longer young and inexperienced, this truth takes on a deeper meaning.

 

Psalm 67:6-7 paints a beautiful picture of God’s provision and abundance: the earth is filled with his blessing. It reminds us that we do not live by our own strength, but that God is the source of everything good and valuable in our lives. Even in the autumn season – a time when we may feel less productive or experience more stillness and reflection – it remains a season filled with blessings.

 

At this stage of life, we can look back with gratitude on the path we’ve walked. The joys, challenges, blessings and even the pain have all shaped us. Our eyes are opened to the many gifts around us – even if life no longer feels as vibrant as it did in our youth. Gratitude gives us a new perspective: it makes us aware of life that still grows, even if it grows in a different way than before.

 

Gratitude in the autumn season means appreciating the richness of experience. It means seeing how God has been at work through everything – even in the difficult times. Psalm 67 reminds us that God’s blessing is not only for our benefit, but so that we can be a blessing to others. Just as the earth yields its harvest, so too can we nourish and encourage others with the wisdom and love we have received over the years.

 

Let us, therefore, learn to live with grateful hearts in this autumn season of life. Let us praise the Lord for his faithfulness, his provision and for the time he gives us to bear fruit in new ways. May our eyes be open to the small blessings of each day and may our hearts remain full of gratitude – for this is how we truly enjoy the fullness of the life God wants to give us.

 

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your faithfulness and blessings in every season of my life. Help me to live with a thankful heart, especially in the autumn season, when things feel quieter and different. Make me aware of your presence and the love that surrounds me each day. May I glorify you in my words and actions, and be a light to those around me. Fill me with your peace and joy, so that I may fully appreciate the richness of the life you’ve given me. Amen.