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Winter teaches us patience.

The days are shorter. The ground looks lifeless. Growth feels slow, if it’s happening at all. And yet, beneath the surface, important work is being done. Roots are deepening. The soil is resting. Life is preparing to emerge.

Faith often works the same way.

There are seasons when God feels close and everything seems to grow at once. And then there are seasons when prayer feels quiet, progress feels invisible, and obedience feels heavier than usual. Scripture never pretends those seasons don’t exist. Instead, it reminds us that endurance matters.

James writes, “Let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:4).

Notice that maturity doesn’t come only through excitement or success. It comes through perseverance. Through continuing to pray when answers are slow. Through choosing faithfulness when feelings fade. Through trusting that God is at work even when the landscape looks barren.

Winter faith is not flashy. It doesn’t draw attention. But it is strong. And when spring comes—as it always does—faith that has endured the cold is ready to bear fruit.

If this season feels quiet or heavy, don’t be discouraged. Keep showing up. Keep trusting. Keep walking with God.

Winter is not the end of the story.