So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6:9 NLT
Many of us experience the different climate seasons of the year; spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Some of us even experience the other seasons; football, baseball, basketball, tennis, and golf. As the World Series and autumn approaches, I once again find myself buying daffodil, tulip, allium, hyacinth, and iris bulbs to plant. It has become as much a tradition as Thanksgiving. During the World Series, we plant bulbs.
We plant those odd-looking, lifeless-looking, awkward shape objects 6-8 inches deep in faith. We have faith that as March Madness nears we will be seeing signs of life, green leaves poking up through the ground surrounding a strong stem that will yield a beautiful bloom with all its intricate details and colors inspiring awe and delight.
We plant months in advance, in faith, believing the spring blooms will come. We plant and God does all the rest. He stretches the roots out from the bottom of the bulb and establishes them in the soil. He protects them through the cold, hard winter. He warms them, thaws them and stretches them up through the crusty soil at just the right time.
Occasionally, we find a stray bulb in another area of our property. Uprooted by a squirrel and journeyed to a new location, it still blooms for all to see.
Year after year, we see God multiply the bulbs and blooms, yet we keep planting also.
So I find myself asking what can we plant spiritually today to see blooming months from now?
- Can I plant a bulb of prayer that God will save a soul or deliver an addict?
- Can I memorize scripture to pray and activate it over a need or desire?
- Can I participate in a Bible study that will grow my understanding of truth and its application in my life?
- Can I forgive someone so that I am no longer chained to that situation or experience?
- Can I walk with someone who is struggling and offer hope?
What is our loving Lord asking us to plant today for another season?
My favorite part of seeing the bulbs blooms is picking bouquets to give to others. Our plantings are also there to bless others.
Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 2 Corinthians 9:6 NLT
Father God, thank You for showing us about planting and reaping. We ask You to be specific with us in what Your desire for us is to plant today, tomorrow, and next week for another season. May You remind us that just because we can’t see an immediate result, You are faithful. You will bring about the result in due season. You are good. Thank You, Jesus, in Your Name, we pray. Amen.