Watch it Grow!

I do not have a green thumb, seriously. But I am learning!

For years, when walking through a greenhouse, I felt a little like asking, “Which one of you beautiful babies wants to come home with me and die?" I would apologize to them up front. Haha!

Then one Christmas, my youngest son, Drew, gave me a Christmas cactus.

I wanted this one to survive. I studied tips and tricks for caring for the cactus. I found a spot with indirect sunlight and watched for signs of growth. I even talked to it.

And guess what? It lived! It has even rewarded me with blooms every Thanksgiving. Here is a picture from a few seasons ago.

That little plant reminds me of something about our walk with Christ. Growth needs tending. Growth needs time.

Growth needs tending.

Growth needs time.

We want patience, but we rush through our days. We want peace, but we fill every still moment. We want to become more like Jesus, but sometimes we give Him whatever time is left. Jesus said, I am the vine; you are the branches" (John 15:5).

Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches” (John 15:5).

Our growth begins by staying close to Him. Galatians 5:22–23 describes the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These are character traits that I need in my everyday life. - In the words I choose when I am frustrated. In the compassion I offer when we are tired. In the patience I practice when things do not go my way. Those ordinary moments become places where God grows me. And progress needs time. My cactus did not bloom the day that Drew brought it home. It took time and intentionality for it to mature. It is nearly 10 years old now.

To grow spiritually. I need to keep opening His Word. I want to keep talking with Him. Now, I even desire His gentle correction. (Ouch!)

Let our growth come from the inside out. Let our growth be intentional.

Friends, I challenge you to stay rooted in Christ—and watch what He grows.

Lord, help me stay close to You. Grow Your fruit in my heart, my words, and my everyday choices. May others see You in the way I live.

Amen.

Be Blessed, Becky