(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Many doctor’s offices, counselors, or other mental health professionals will illustrate personal health or growth using the illustration of a tree or plant with roots deep underground. The message is clear: being deeply rooted leads to good health.
It shouldn’t surprise us that Jesus often used similar illustrations in His parables. Many of the people in the crowds had experience in farming, so He would use illustrations that resonated with the crowd. The people were well experienced in cultivating a garden to ensure crops would grow.
But in the parable of the growing seed (Mark 4:26-29), the story acknowledges that the farmer doesn’t fully understand exactly how the seed takes root and grows. Yes, he tilled the soil. Yes, he scattered the seed. But he doesn’t understand the entirety of the process of how the seed grows.
This same principle plays out in our lives. Our role is to till the soil and take every step we can to grow. We may not fully understand how the growth occurs, but we can trust that we will grow.
READING & JOURNALING:
Think about how you’ve spent your time this week. Were there any times in which you were taking steps to cultivate your life for good health (emotionally, spiritually, physically)? What steps can you take to increase these moments in your life?
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I know that enjoying a tv show or scrolling through social media isn’t necessarily sinful, but when I see how much screen time I’ve had over the past week, or time with other distractions, I recognize I could often use my time more wisely to cultivate personal growth. Help me to use my time wisely today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
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