Saturday, November 17, 2012

God is in the Garden


Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
— Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Today's Devotional

A few months ago I planted a garden, eagerly anticipating the time when I would sit at the table and enjoy the taste of fresh, homegrown vegetables. The hard work of preparing the soil, sowing the seeds, watering, and weeding just heightened the anticipation. This reminds me of the work that God does to prepare us for harvest. God enriches the soil of our hearts by sending people into our lives to prepare the way for us to come to know Jesus Christ and commit to following him.
Of course, in my garden I might pull up a certain plant because it was not doing as well as the others. At other times I destroy some plants because I am too careless while weeding. I am so glad that the Lord is not like me! In great love, God tends our souls and gives us what we need.
Today I reaped some of the produce of my garden. Thinking of the savory dish I will soon enjoy from my garden’s produce makes me thankful that I did not give up when the days were hot and the weeds seemed out of control. The work I put into my garden makes me appreciate all that God does for us. God will never give up on tending our souls.
Leon McBride (Georgia, USA)
Thought for the Day: Remembering all that God does for us strengthens us to keep going.
Prayer: Most holy and gracious God, thank you for not giving up on us and for meeting our needs. Help us to persevere so that you will have an acceptable harvest through us. Amen.
Prayer Focus: Gardeners

Thank you, Upper Room, for reminding us that God started everything in a garden.  May God bless our harvest and Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!