I was not blessed with a green thumb. In fact, I like to joke that plants come to my house to die; no matter how much I valiantly attempt to keep them alive. Both my mother and mother-in-law, however, are quite the opposite. They lovingly display yards full of flowers blooming over in every imaginable shape, size and color. Surrounded by this level of beauty one can instantly feel a sense of peace and serenity.
My backyard pales in comparison. A few patches of hostas and day lilies line up against the south side of our fence, a sea of green with an occasional variant of color when the lilies are in bloom. These flowers seem to be the only survivors who can persevere through the dry soil and scattered watering patterns.
I’m so thankful that my faith doesn’t depend upon my skill level in growing plants, or I would be in major trouble!
Instead, the growth I need to concern myself with the most lives inside the spiritual realm of this world. Its refuge is found within wisdom; its tenants are based solely on the solid rock of Jesus. It is a continual search for truth and an ever-increasing knowledge of the promises God gives us within His Word.
“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and forever! Amen. — 2 Peter 3:18
Peter implores the early church to not merely accept their belief in Jesus, but to grow every single day in their knowledge of Him and his wonderful, saving grace. As with plants, growth such as this does not happen overnight. It is a slow process involving lots of patience, love and nurturing. Over time the seeds that were planted will bloom. The nurturing process gives the creation a sense of identity and purpose, along with a foundation built on love.
I broke down the word GROW into four statements that can be applied to our spiritual life:
Gradually
Reaching
Out for
Wisdom (God’s Word)
Every day we take another step forward towards a life that is pleasing and worthy of the Lord. As we grow, we use what we have learned to bear fruit in every aspect of our life. We begin to comprehend what it means to speak the truth in love. The seeds that were planted in our souls begin to take root and spiral upward as God grows us into the man or woman he created us to be.
We grow as His hope blossoms within us. And one day we will be able to fully understand everything we have learned as we are united with Christ in eternity; surrounded by peace and serenity.
Beyond Room 908 