HEAVENLY GARDENING

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  2 Peter 3:18a

Being an avid gardener as well as one who desires people to come to Jesus, I have found several similarities in the Bible between gardening and sharing God’s Word. 

We must depend on God for the results because He alone gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).  We must sow the seed.  Aren’t you amazed at what happens when you plant a tiny seed in God’s good earth?  We must also share the powerful seed of God’s Word for people’s lives to be changed (Hebrews 4:12).  We need to be patient.  Most seed packs tell you how long it will take for your plant to grow. So we cannot push or force the Holy Spirit’s work in people’s hearts.  Just keep praying and expecting the best (James 5:7-8)!  Our gardens as well as our spiritual efforts need watering.  My garden often looks like an oasis in a desert because of our sprinkling system. Spiritually, we water the seeds we plant with prayer showing folks the reality of Jesus in our lives.  When the harvest comes, we must be careful not to overlook or miss any fruit.  So we should never underestimate God’s work in anyone’s life.  No one who comes to Jesus will ever be cast out or rejected (John 6:37), and He does not lose any of His own (John 6:39).  We must realize that God can grow a spiritual garden in ANY heart.  No one is beyond receiving God’s grace and forgiveness (1 Timothy 1:12-17). 

Finally, we must never give up!  Sometimes I am tempted to say “Why bother with this garden?” or “Why bother sharing the Gospel?”  Then you see the fruits of yours and ultimately God’s labor and marvel (1 Corinthians 15:58), May God bless your gardens and your efforts to reach others for Jesus!

Bob Kulp