Category Archives: Gardening

Oct2

Trusting God’s Plan in our Darkest Days

Posted on by
Standard

012612_1317_IAmOnlyOne1.jpg

 
“’For I know the plans I have for you,’
 declares the LORD,
‘ plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
 plans to give you hope and a future.'”
Jeremiah 29:11

Just like a caterpillar enters the dark, mysterious chrysalis before emerging as a beautiful butterfly, we often go through dark periods in life where it can be hard to see God’s hand at work. While walking through those valleys, we may feel alone, uncertain, and hopeless about the future. But even in those times, God is at work in us, bringing about transformation and growth that we cannot yet see.

God’s Promise in the Dark Valleys

The hopeful words of Jeremiah 29:11 remind us that God has a plan for each of us: “For I know the plan I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” This encouraging assurance was spoken to God’s people while they endured a long period of exile, feeling lost and abandoned. God saw their hardships, and He heard their cries for help. He met them in that lonely place and let them know His prosperous vision for their future. Even in their darkest time, God had not forgotten them. He was working for their good, preparing a future of hope and restoration.

God is Always Working, Even When We Don’t See It

In our own lives, we may experience seasons of difficulty where God’s presence feels distant. But just like the caterpillar in its chrysalis, those times are often the very moments when God is preparing us for something greater. His plans for us are always for good, even when we can’t yet see the end result.

So when you find yourself in a dark valley, remember that God is with you, working behind the scenes, transforming your circumstances for His glory and your good. Trust in His timing and have faith that, like the butterfly, you will one day emerge from the darkness with new strength, beauty, and purpose.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for your constant presence in our lives, even in the darkest valleys. Help us trust Your plans, knowing that You are always at work for our good, even when we can’t see it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Related Verses: 

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3: 5 - 6

Jun8

The Master Gardener

Posted on by
Standard

30 And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers

That are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow,

He will certainly care for you.

Why do you have so little faith?

31 “So don’t worry …

Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.

33 Seek the Kingdom of God
~above all else~ and live righteously,

And he will give you everything you need.

Matthew 6:30-33 (NLT)

 

Profuse blossoms of wildflowers artfully color the median along many Georgia highways. In some spots, their gorgeous display resembles a beautiful impressionist painting. I am amazed to see how they flourish there in the scorching southern heat, bordered by two expanses of asphalt, absent of any gardener or sprinkler system. If I try to produce the same effect in my own yard, I always come up disappointed.

The wildflower display is the handiwork of the Master Gardener, and it reminds me of His tender and unfathomable care for His children. Our Heavenly Father masterfully tends the garden of our lives. In the fertile soil of our hearts, He plants seeds of love, joy, peace, patience, and faithfulness. The light of His presence sprinkled with a daily dose of His Word creates the perfect environment for a fruitful and abundant life. As the tender sprouts take root, He is there to pull up the weeds of doubt, pride, selfishness…and worry. The more time we spend in His presence, the better the garden of our hearts can flourish and the more fruitful our lives become. The less time we spend with Him, the more cluttered our hearts become with unfruitful weeds, which choke out the blessings He has planted there.

By seeking God ~ above all else ~ we are tapping into the source by whom our most basic needs are met. Entrust the Master Gardener to care for your life. Place your faith in Him, and do not worry. Believe His promises. If you diligently seek God and commit your ways to Him, He will faithfully provide for your needs.

“Delight yourself in the Lord and

He will give you the desires of your heart.”

(Psalm 37:4)