One of my son’s first Biology experiments this school year is to plant seeds and observe its growth. He has been diligent to follow the instructions of putting the soil in the cup, planting the seeds, placing it in sunlight, and watering it regularly.
Initially, when my son checked on it daily, he noticed that it looked the same: just a bunch of dirt in the cup. Nevertheless, he continued to care for it as instructed. However, a few days of this process left him feeling discouraged. He wondered if these seeds had taken root and if they would even sprout and bloom.
In spite of not seeing any progress, we encouraged him to continue what he was doing. A few more days had passed and to his surprise, a little green sprout was visible! Each day since we continued to see more growth and the cup is occupied now with a vibrant plant.
This experiment left me thinking about our own circumstances. Whether it’s raising a child, working at a relationship, or pursuing a venture, there’s a process involved, isn’t there? We begin with the excitement of starting something new and steadily pour our time and energy into seeing it grow. However, there are days when your child acts in ways that lead you to believe they are not hearing a word you say. There are times when that relationship seems stagnant as the efforts are not reciprocated. There are moments when your venture appears to be going nowhere as the big break seems way off the beaten path.
In times like this, we are tempted to just quit and walk away from it all. I mean, what’s the point, right? How long do we have to wait to see a positive outcome? Besides, the culture of our present-day tells us it’s okay to cancel anything that doesn’t work immediately the way we want it to.
Galatians 6:9 (MSG) reminds us, “So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.”
If Miriam had quit while waiting for Moses to be discovered in the basket, the Israelites would have not had a deliverer.
If Joseph had quit after being forgotten by the cupbearer, the people would have died from the famine.
If Paul had quit the first time he was persecuted, there would not be a New Testament church.
Most importantly, “… consider carefully how Jesus faced such intense opposition from sinners who opposed their own souls, so that you won’t become worn down and cave in under life’s pressures.” (Hebrews 12:3 TPT)
Be encouraged today dear Friend to continue “caring for your plant”.
~Joyce
