Baby It’s Cold Outside
In writing this article, it can be noted that the temperature outside is -2 F (-18 C). Brrr! Inside I have my big hairy monster slippers on and a coffee mug here at my desk ready with warmth to tickle my innards. However, I trek outside a couple of times a day to throw some wood in my outdoor wood burner. The cold bites out there. I protect myself with a big trapper hat, heavy coat, and gloves. Still, I do not linger out in the cold for long. The wind chill supposedly makes the air feel like -24 f (-31 C) and I believe every bit of that! Baby, it’s cold outside!
This weather makes me pause a moment and think about cold. In the KJV, “coldeth” (just kidding), cold is mentioned 18 times. There are some notable positives written about.
- Genesis 8:22 – Cold is an indication that the earth is still here, moving right along as it always does and as God promised.
- Proverbs 25:13 – Cold of snow following the harvest is refreshing. No more sweltering heat of summer.
- Proverbs 25:20 – Cold means warm sweater weather, comfortable bundle up clothes, and friendly fuzzy slippers.
- Proverbs 25:25, Matthew 10:42 – Cold water to one who is thirsty. I don’t always drink water, but when I do, it is cold!
- Nahum 3:17 – The cold chases bugs off to the side and away from being a nuisance.
- John 18:18, Acts 28:2 – With cold, comes the building of fires. I could sit around a fire all day long. Enjoy the warmth of the flames and of good company.
Of course, there is the other side of cold that should not be overlooked.
- 2 Corinthians 11:27 – Cold can cause suffering. It can weaken and destroy. Therefore, not only must the individual be prepared, but he must be watchful of others who might suffer the effects of cold.
- Matthew 24:12– When sin abounds, hearts grow cold. There is frigid place where love, compassion, kindness, and goodness should be instead. Individuals, congregations, societies, are a better place when they remove the icy shackles of sin from around them.
It is my hope that this insight into the Bible’s presentation of cold set a gentle flame in your mind. As the cold days of winter visit you, enjoy the positives of some chill. Break out some hot cocoa and don’t forget the marshmallows. If there are those in need of warmth, protection, and care in these times of cold, reach out, and share the fire of your heart, hospitality, and love. It’s cold outside, but don’t let it put the freeze on you. May the good works and good news of Christ abound in your life and conversation and stoke the coals of hope and joy over these frosty days.