Now that spring has arrived, it’s time to work in the garden. I'm not a gardening pro. It’s only been a few years since I’ve tried my hand at planting and growing. Truth is, the gardening process has become more spiritual than I expected. I'm learning from and enjoying the experience more each year.
A quote from John C. Maxwell says, “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional”. Just as I consider plants that work well for my garden and for my level of gardening experience, I realize that I must choose to grow.
Psalm 92:12-14 reminds me of this, "The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing,"
When the Bible refers to “the righteous” it doesn’t mean the perfect. The reference is for those who have chosen to follow God.
Just as I choose which flowers work best; just as I choose to prepare my ground for planting; just as I choose to water and nourish my seedlings; I must choose to grow.
The gardening process is not for the faint at heart—neither is growth. Producing a garden that one can enjoy takes time, patience, and hard work—so does growth.
The verses goes on to say that those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish.
Today, I choose to take time to seek God’s face. I choose to lay a foundation based on faith in God. I choose to examine my own life, removing objects that hinder my personal and spiritual development. I choose to plant positivity and water with grace. I choose to grow.
Just as my flowers are bright, bold, and amazing, blessing those who choose to soak in their beauty, I too will flourish.
Change is inevitable. Growth is optional. I choose growth.