Worshipful Wednesday: Lessons from the Garden, Part 1

Several years ago, I sat down and started writing out the thoughts that had come into my head during the time I spent in the garden. It was like God was showing me how our lives are mirrored in the way His creation works. I'd like to share with you what God was teaching me (what I'm still learning to this day). Here is part one...

Soil

When we clear away everthing that is dead and rotting from our hearts, the ground is soft and open. Then God sends the rain that soaks in deep. This rain may be light and refreshing, but most of the time it is a downpour, complete with lightning and thunder and wind. It seems so harsh, as though it would uproot and wash away the seedlings that God planted. However, He has a perfect plan. He knows just how much rain to send to bring us back to life and into a right relationship with Him. Our job is to hold fast during the storm, trusting that soon the Sun will come again and we will be ready to grow, having been nourished abundantly by our Master Gardener, the Lord God.

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13

Stephanie

Garden tours

One of my favorite things to do in the spring is take a leisurely walk around the house to see what's growing and blooming. Since spring came so early this year it looks more like May out there than early April - just gorgeous - and a rainbow of colors! Everything from miniscule wildflowers to showy azaleas and bleeding heart, volunteers and faithful perennials.

 Forget-me-nots:

so much beauty in such a tiny package

Our ancient lilac bush:

just love those double blossoms!

Dogwood:

a timely reminder of the story of Easter

God is truly the best Gardener! He takes care of all the plants and flowers, despite my good intentions to help Him out. I can put them in the ground and give them food and water, but only He can make them grow and bloom so vibrantly. Amazing when I think he cares for us even more than these "lilies of the field"!

Thanks for touring the garden with me!

Stephanie