“This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him, there is no darkness at all…" 1 John 1:5-7 (NIV)
I don't know about you, but by the end of October, I dread the shorter days and longer nights. It might seem crazy, but the darkness seems to feel like a heavyweight blanket I can't throw off. No matter how hard I try, I seem to be more tired, depressed, and anxious. Psychologists today call this condition Seasonal Affective Disorder, and it's no surprise that the acronym spells "SAD". Unfortunately, daylight savings is a day that tends to make this condition worse.
Though the change of time is beyond our control, there are still a few simple ways we can embrace daylight savings for the benefit of our mental health. And it doesn't include going back in time, traveling by time machine, or defying space and time.
Before we explore ways to embrace daylight savings, let's explore the purpose: to make better use of daylight and encourage outdoor activities. In the summer, this is easy. But as we fall back, and the cooler months bring winter weather and changing seasons, we're still encouraged to prioritize our time efficiently and effectively and participate in outdoor activities. But going outside when it's cold can be hard! Can you relate?
One thing that has helped me get through this season is this reminder: it's just a season. And every season God has made is beautiful in its own time (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). While it's difficult to get outside, forcing ourselves into natural sunlight, even for just a quick 5-10-minute walk can be beneficial. Especially if we know it's going to make us feel better in the long run. Studies show that natural light can positively affect our mood and energy levels, serving as a reminder to seek light in our lives.
Daylight Savings can also remind us to seek both the physical and spiritual Light we need to keep going.
In John 8:12, Jesus says: "Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" (NKJV). Embracing spiritual daylight reminds us to reflect on how light symbolizes hope and clarity, which can combat feelings of anxiety and depression. We may still battle these mental health struggles, but the Light of the world lives within us and gives us other people to shine light into our circles.
While spring allows us to take advantage of the extra daylight, winter invites us to reflect, finding warmth in our relationships and faith. The shorter days can encourage us to seek light and comfort from God and others. Remember, there is hope and joy to be found even in the coldest seasons.
This November, as we fall back, I'd encourage you to pray and seek God with everything you're feeling. Talk to Him about walking in His light, even when the daylight hours wane and you make intentional choices that support your mental and spiritual health in a darker season.
Here are some practical things to pray about and implement:
Establish routines: Getting in an orderly routine helps us set patterns and reduce stress. Being active earlier in the day, when the sun is still out, for example, and then doing indoor activities in the evening, is one method.
Practice gratitude: As with any season, fall brings about a time of abundance and blessings. Writing down things you're grateful for at the start or end of your day can harvest a thankful heart and reduce depression.
Connect with Community: Especially during the winter months, connecting with others for fellowship and support is super important for our mental health. These seasonal transitions aren't easy, but friends, family, counselors, and church members can make it easier. They offer a listening ear, abundant joy, and the companionship you need to bear these burdens (and overcome them).
Just as the seasons change, God’s presence remains constant, even in our darkest moments. Daylight savings in both the fall and spring invites us to reflect on times when we've felt God's light guiding us through struggles. You'll notice this emphasizes God's faithfulness in seasons of light and abundance and darkness and famine.
When it comes to our mental health, this reminder can provide immense comfort and hope during our struggles. Here are some reflection questions to get you started:
- How do changes in daylight affect your mood and mental well-being?
- What practical steps can you take to ensure you’re walking in the light—spiritually and mentally?
- Who can you reach out to for support, and how can you offer support to them?
Let's pray:
Dear God,
While we aren't in control of the changing seasons, we know that you are. As we approach a darker physical season, we ask you to illuminate areas of darkness in our lives, both mentally and spiritually. We pray for healing from these challenges and the strength to endure them according to your will. Give us the ability to embrace your Light during this transitional season and wisdom as we seek you and the community around us for support. Give us opportunities to uplift others and be uplifted by you. We love, praise, and thank you, Jesus, all year round. Amen.
Agape, Amber
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Noah Benjamin
Related Resource: Jesus Calling - Stories of Faith
Kerry Washington, Andrea Bocelli, Reba McEntire, Mark Wahlberg, Tony Dungy, and Matthew McConaughey—what do all of these people have in common? They are all people of faith who have leaned on God in both the good and challenging times—and they’ve shown up to tell their stories of faith on The Jesus Calling Podcast. The Jesus Calling Podcast provides a place for people from all walks of life to share the heartaches, joys, and divine moments that keep them going.
Inspired by Sarah Young's classic devotional book, the Jesus Calling podcast has brought encouragement and peace to millions. New episodes drop every Thursday! Listen today on LifeAudio.com or wherever you find your podcasts.
Originally published Monday, 11 November 2024.
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