In the verses that follow, the writer of Ecclesiastes continues to list the many, common things in life which happen in their time and season to drive home his initial point that there is a time and season for everything.

These times and seasons come to us or present themselves to us in different shapes and sizes, in different forms and packages and at different times and seasons. They don’t always announce themselves as particular times and seasons nor do they give advance notice of their coming or arrival. They sometimes just pop up out of nowhere and unexpectedly. They even have the tendency of appearing disguised as misfortune and adversity when they are in fact opportunities knocking at our door.  Hence the expression, “blessing in disguise”!

Ours is to discern and make use of them for maximum effect as they don’t have the habit of hanging around for that long and oft don’t repeat themselves. We make use of these times to maximum effect when we discern what they’re given to us by God for and accomplish His purposes in our lives for His glory and the benefit of His kingdom.

It is important that we rise up to and utilise them for the purpose the Sovereign and all knowing God has assigned times for us. Effective use of times and seasons in our lives that God intends them for is wisdom. On the contrary, not doing so is unwise – Ephesians 5:15 — 16
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.

Let us ensure we walk wisely by making the best use of the times and seasons God assigns in our lives, by walking according to His timetable. Let us grab hold of these times we have been given by Him for His glory and supreme purpose in our lives.

In the words of the famous French microbiologist Louis Pasteur, “…chance favours only the prepared mind.”

How true. Remain prepared all the time!