GROWING THROUGH WORK
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)
We usually associate the word seed with botany (the study of plants). However, a seed can be an idea, a word or even an action. For example, using words with a co-worker to plant the idea that Jesus is a good Father can produce a powerful result. For years, I thought that planting the seed was the only work necessary until the time of reaping and that God would do the rest as if the work of planting and reaping was all that was needed. What about the time between sowing and reaping, between planting and harvesting?
In the midst of sowing and reaping is the work of cultivating. Sow, cultivate, harvest. There is some work here; at a minimum, it includes searching out and choosing where/with whom to plant. Cultivating just one seed can feel daunting, yet getting over the fear of the scope of work needed to cultivate what you sow is transformative. Remember, the Father in Heaven does not leave you alone in the field to cultivate all the seeds you have sown. The Father is with you.
Part of our growth in Christ is in the very act of cultivating many seeds of His love that have been planted in others. Praying for them, being physically present for them, and watching for opportunities to express compassion. This can even cost resources. If the Father asks you to plant the seeds, He will often provide opportunities to cultivate those people with expressions of God’s love. When we work in the field between planting and harvesting, we grow as we depend on God to grow what He’s started in others. Remember, David had some experience in the field before facing Goliath. He did not go down to deal with his enemy without faith and knowing how to use his sling.
Planting many seeds over time can evolve into steadily harvesting many plants when it is time to harvest. Math is not my favorite subject; however, I can understand the simplicity of planting many seeds, cultivating them through their unique growth, and harvesting those plants can become exponential. Now, that is consistently bountiful!
APPLICATION:
Let us cultivate our seeds, work with those we share ideas with and give words of encouragement. Sow seeds in those Christ has set in your path with confidence.
PRAYER:
Father in heaven, please give me the wisdom and knowledge to cultivate in a way that yields a bountiful harvest. Give me wisdom and knowledge to sow, cultivate and harvest in a way Your Kingdom would be glorified. Give me the faith to know I can work with many seeds because Your yoke is easy, and Your burden is light.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?