I love to garden! Preparing our garden in the spring after the threat of frost has subsided is something I look forward to every year, especially after a long, dreary winter. If you've ever gardened you know that it involves a little work before you can even plant your seeds, or seedlings into the ground.
After laying dormant all winter, there will be some clean-up of the area, preparation of the soil, and a little repair work if your garden has taken a beating from the weather and any wildlife since last fall.
It's funny though, weeds don't seem to take a holiday at any time of the year. As soon as the first warm rays of the sun penetrate the ground they pop up right on cue! It was while I was puttering away in my garden that something suddenly dawned on me!
The condition of the garden plot, after being neglected for several months, illustrated what our hearts can look like if we neglect to care for and encourage the growth or development of God's word as we should. Like the garden, it doesn't take long for things to deteriorate or decline in our relationship with Him.
I think about The Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13. In this parable, the seed that is sown is the Word of God. When I plant my garden, I know that some seeds will take and others won't. It's not because I am such a terrible gardener. That's just the way it is. Plain and simple. Not every seed will take.
Similarly, if we only hear or study the Word of God, and don't do anything else with it; there's little chance that seed (Word of God) will ever develop and become fruitful. How many attend church, listen to the sermon, but at the end take nothing home with them other than their Bible and a church bulletin?
God can only give us His word. If our hearts are not accepting or open to it, it won't take root. Neither can we expect to just sit and wait for something to happen. It must be constantly nutured and worked into our hearts. It will also take committment on our part (Matthew 13:21).
Jesus Christ understands (knows) that we are not all alike. He also is aware that not all of us are going to be receptive to Him. But as Christians, we are held to a higher standard because we have accepted who He is. We are also aware of the effort and responsibility that is required on our part to grow in faith and love for Him.
To follow Christ is not a task for the faint of heart, or indolent. It's going to take some work. In the garden weeds will grow, the soil will dry out if, and plants will wither if it is neglected. The collapse or deterioration of our connection to God will happen if we fail to care for it, as well.
Without a doubt, there are many things that can go wrong, or discourage our growth in God (Mark 4:19). Some will be serious about their devotion and love for Him. Others, content only to let the seed (His Word) lie there, will never see growth or development happen (John 15:2).
Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12; Matthew 24:35; Proverbs 30:5-6; John 12:48
Prayer: Dear God, may Your Word always inspire me, guide me, and bless me all the days of my life. Amen
May your day be blessed!
Mary Alice
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