Cuffing Season #InaRelationship

This powerful message confronts us with a reality we often overlook: the seasonal patterns that pull us away from God during the darkest months of the year. Drawing from James 4:6-10, we're challenged to examine what's known as 'cuffing season'—that cultural phenomenon where people seek temporary romantic connections for comfort during cold, dark months. But here's the transformative truth: God is calling us to be 'cuffed' to Him instead. The sermon unpacks the Day of Atonement from the Old Testament, revealing how ancient Israel's yearly ritual of cleansing pointed forward to Christ's once-and-for-all sacrifice. We learn that two goats were used—one sacrificed to appease God's wrath, another sent into the wilderness carrying the people's sins. This wasn't just religious ceremony; it was a profound picture of what Jesus would accomplish on the cross. The central challenge is humility—we cannot draw close to God without dying to ourselves, our pride, and our fleshly desires. When we humble ourselves and pray, seeking God's face and turning from our wicked ways, He promises to hear from heaven and forgive our sins. This season isn't about finding temporary comfort in human relationships; it's about reflecting on God's goodness, recognizing how many times He's rescued us, and choosing to be bound in covenant love with Him. The road to atonement is the road to being right with God—forever.