Following Instructions
Merry Broughal (Oregon, USA)
Were praying this so that you can live lives that are worthy of the Lord and pleasing to him in every way: by producing fruit in every good work and growing in the knowledge of God. - Colossians 1:10 (CEB)
When we removed a 20-foot cedar tree from our yard, it left a cracked and discolored concrete retaining wall exposed.
Fresh paint and two trellises for climbing plants helped cover part of it. At first the vines we planted were spindly and weak, but we followed the planting instructions and with proper care and watering the vines started to grow. Over time, as we continued to follow the instructions, the foliage became full and lush with brilliant flowers.
When we first give our lives to the Lord, we may start out much like spindly vines needing tending and cultivation to grow toward God. We begin to grow by spending time in scripture, then a number of changes begin to unfold. In time our lives become fuller, and the changes become evident for all to see. But as I learned by tending the flowering vines, we need to continue watering and cultivating our faith to keep growing in the knowledge of God and to become more like Jesus. We will never outgrow the wisdom found in scripture that leads us to abundant life with God.
TODAY'S PRAYER
Father God, thank you for providing us with everything we need to live an abundant life. Help us to remain rooted in your word and to grow in faith. Amen.
TODAY'S READING
2 Timothy 3:14-17
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
In scripture, God provides everything I need to grow in faith.
PRAYER FOCUS
Gardeners
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