There are moments when I sit with good intentions and a clear plan, only to find my thoughts drifting, my words slow to come, and my energy not quite up to par. This winter, that has been my reality. COVID-Encephalopathy and Rhabdomyolysis have wreaked havoc on my life and plans.

I used to measure productivity by progress, things accomplished, boxes checked, and goals met. But this season has asked something different of me. It has asked me to give myself grace when things don’t go as planned.

Winter has a way of doing that.

In nature, winter appears quiet, even lifeless. Trees stand bare. Fields lie fallow. Growth seems to have stalled. But we know better. Beneath frozen ground, roots are strengthening. Nutrients are being stored. Preparation is quietly underway.

Perhaps the same is true for us.

When Plans Change and Energy Wanes

There are seasons when our bodies slow us down. Seasons when our minds feel foggy, and our hearts feel tender. Seasons when we wonder why tasks that once came easily now require more effort, or remain unfinished altogether.

I tend to get impatient with myself in these moments. I try to push harder, wondering how I will ever catch up. Do you feel the same way?

Oh, but Scripture reminds us that growth doesn’t follow our timelines.

“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Even our unproductive seasons are held by God with purpose.

Grace Is Not the Same as Giving Up

Giving ourselves grace does not mean we stop growing. It means we release the pressure to grow in ways that are unsustainable for the season we are in.

Grace allows us to say:

• This is where I am today.
• This is what I can manage right now.
• And that is enough.

When we stop fighting the season and begin honoring it, we create space for God to work beneath the surface, where true transformation often begins.

Growing Beneath the Surface

Yes, winter growth is quiet. It isn’t celebrated and often goes unnoticed. But it is essential.

I am learning to ask different questions in these slower months:

• What is God strengthening in me, even if I can’t yet see it?
• What expectations do I need to release?

Psalm 31:15 has become a steady reminder: “My times are in Your hands.” Even this time. Especially this time.

An Invitation to You

If you find yourself discouraged by unmet plans or a sense of stagnation, you are not alone. Perhaps this season isn’t about producing, but about preparing.

• Give yourself grace.
• Honor the winter.
• Trust that growth is still happening.

Spring will come. It always does. But for now, let’s rest in the quiet work God is doing within us, work that cannot be rushed, but will one day bear fruit.

As this year begins, I am holding one word close, RELEASE.

I don’t know what this season will bring, but I am learning to trust the One who does. My times, every one of them, are in His hands. And that is enough.

I would love to know how you sense God at work in your life. Are there areas you need to RELEASE as you prepare for your next season?