We are always observing or celebrating one season of life or the other. When Jacob fled from his brother Esau to his uncle Laban in Haran, he entered a new season of life marked by his marriage to Leah and Rachel. His movement to an environment was also a new season because he began serving Laban, which eventually enriched him. His prayer to God at Bethel was very instrumental in helping him to get through this period of his life. Jacob’s prayer exemplifies how we can transition from one season of life to another.

“And he called the name of that place Bethel; but the name of that city had been Luz previously. Then Jacob made a vow, saying, ‘if God will be with me, and keep me in this way that I am going, and give me bread to eat and clothing to put on, so that I come back to my father’s house in peace, then the Lord shall be my God. And this stone which I have set as a pillar shall be God’s house, and of all that You give me I will surely give a tenth to You,’” (Genesis 28:19-22 NKJV).

Jacob spent 20 years in Haran; he went empty, not married and not having anything, but returned increased and multiplied (Gen.32:10). The series of encounters he had with God radically affected his life.

There are many seasons and transition periods in our lives that we should constantly pray about. Some seasons are age-related like birthdays, when we turn from one landmark age to another. Transiting from one decade to another is also another important milestone that we should intentionally pray about. Some erroneously spend a great amount of time partying during their birthdays instead of spending time to pray and launch themselves into the next phase of their lives.

Some seasons are work-related. Some begin to experience difficulties when they move into new jobs. At times, what should have brought joy to them, have turned out to be a regrettable experience. Some have relocated to new environments or new countries without prayerfully considering the implications only to live in regret their hasty decision.

Some seasons are time-bound like transitioning to a new month. Many have rightly observed that the “ember months,” that is, from September to December each year are characterised by tragedies and accidents. Some believe that demonic powers operate more in the “ember months” than in other months of the year. This has given rise to special prayers being held in these months. The truth is that each month comes with its challenges.

Some transition periods are weather-related related like moving from summer to winter. Some fall sick due to weather patterns at certain periods of the year, others feel so uncomfortable at certain months. For some travelling by air is a nightmare and so frightening.

Some seasons are environment-related. Some places are more accident-prone than others. We need to pray before relocating to such an environment. Cultism may have been practiced in some environments before moving into such places. Our prayers are necessary to cleanse and sanitise those environments.

Marriage is supposed to bring joy and blessing to us, but in some cases, the opposite occurs; instead of joy, it has brought sadness and sorrow to some. Some die during childbearing like Rachel who passed away during delivery. She died on her way to Bethlehem, the house of bread. What a tragedy! (Gen.35:16 22).
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