The vibrant gold, orange, red, and yellow leaves of Fall in Iowa shouted God’s creativity and faithfulness to my soul. For twenty years, we served in a country where trees did not shed colorful leaves. Occasionally, we could chase down deciduous trees and see a handful of branches with a bit of color outside an old palace, park, or castle grounds. 

Too soon, autumn will become winter, and snow will push past the yards, porches, and streets. Snow made only one feeble attempt to visit us in Lisbon. Instead, winter rains brought year-round flowers and blooms. God’s beautiful reminders of His presence were evident in the sights and sounds of ocean waves and gorgeous sunrises and sunsets.  

The familiar hymn, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” quotes James 1:17b; “There is no shadow of turning with Thee.” 

Life’s circumstances shift and fluctuate, much like the weather. James reminds us that God’s character remains unchanged. Meditating on the verse in various translations and remembering that the context of the chapter speaks to God’s faithfulness during trials will help us better understand the God James is describing.  

“He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.” (NLT), “…with whom there is never the slightest variation or shadow of inconsistency.” (J.B. Phillips), “in whom there is no variation [no rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [for He is perfect and never changes].” (Amplified Bible)  

Even when I cannot hear the crunch of leaves under my feet or observe snowflakes gliding to earth, God’s steady presence and dependable promises prevail. In our trials, we may be tempted to doubt His trustworthiness. While the world around us preaches that God isn’t relevant, needed, or wanted, He remains faithful. He offers His grace, mercy, and strength as we stumble through life’s ups and downs and escorts us through all of the seasons of life, offering treasured wisdom as we grow in His Word. 

“All I have needed, Thy hand hath provided. Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me.”